The three players, who have collectively played 337 ISL matches, were roped in as free transfers with Vanspaul joining the Red and Gold brigade on a two-year contract, while Khabra and Mandar have signed one-year deals.
East Bengal FC’s newly hired head coach Carles Cuadrat explained how each of the trio’s vast experience will benefit his team in the upcoming ISL season.
“In Mandar we have an experienced player who has also captained his teams in the past and will add a lot of value to our team,” Carles Cuadrat was quoted as saying by ISL.com.
“Khabra is a very experienced player. More importantly, he is someone who knows the club and is loved by the fans. He was one of my captains at Bengaluru FC, and he’ll again be one of my captains at East Bengal FC.
“Vanspaul’s greatest strength is his ability to play in multiple positions. He is an extremely passionate footballer who always goes that extra yard for his team.”
Welcoming Mandar, Edwin and Khabra to the East Bengal FC family, Debabrata Mukherjee of Emami Group said, “Among the three of them, they have won every trophy that Indian football has to offer. Their quality, versatility, experience and winning mentality will add strength and depth to our squad.”
Mandar, who has won a ISL Winners’ Shield with FC Goa, and two League Winners’ Shields and an ISL title with Mumbai City FC, hopes to play a pivotal role in the Red & Golds’ resurgence.
“It feels great to join East Bengal FC. It’s a new challenge for me and I want to contribute to the team in whatever capacity is required of me,” said Mandar.
Coach Carles is a fine tactician and wonderful human being. I am glad to get another opportunity to playing under him. I can’t wait to wear the Red & Gold jersey and help the team win.”
The 35-year-old Khabra, meanwhile, returns home to East Bengal after seven years and is thrilled to be working again under boss Cuadrat, while he is also looking forward to the Kolkata Derby.
“I am incredibly excited to return home. This club has given me so much and here’s a chance for me to relive all of that! I can’t wait to give my 100% in front of our fans,” Harmanjot said.
“I am especially looking forward to the derby, a game that always gave us an extra push in the past. There’s also a sense of excitement to be working with Coach Carles again, who has played a big role in making me a better player.”
Vanspaul, who is all set to start a new chapter in his career, is honoured to be joining an iconic club like East Bengal FC, which has a spectacular fan base.
On joining East Bengal FC, Vanspaul said, “We all know about Kolkata’s football heritage and legacy. So, for me, joining an iconic club like East Bengal is a huge deal.
“Whenever I’ve played against East Bengal FC in the past, I’ve always marvelled at the club’s spectacular fan base. I want to be a part of this culture now. I can’t wait to play under coach Carles and reunite with my good friend Nandha(kumar Sekar).”
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