East Bengal FC has announced the signing of Indian national Team defender Jay Gupta from FC Goa on a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee.
He had played significant role in FC Goa’s Kalinga Super Cup victory earlier this year, as well as their consecutive ISL semifinal appearances, He will wear jersey number 27.
Joining the Iconic East Bengal Club, Jay said “I made my national team debut in Kolkata last year, so it’s indeed special to now play for a big club like East Bengal from this great city. I can’t wait to make my debut for the Red & Gold Brigade, contribute to the team’s success, experience and win derbies, and bring joy to all the East Bengal supporters. Joy East Bengal!”
Hailing from Pune, Gupta is known for his football intelligence, physicality and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. The 23-year-old can operate as a left-back or left centre-back, thus bringing versatility to the Red & Gold Brigade’s backline.
Thangboi Singto, the club’s Head of Football, said “Jay is a young and dynamic defender with immense potential and proven quality at both club and international levels. His arrival adds the versatility that we’ve been seeking in our first team’s backline,”
Originally from Pune, Jay honed his skills at the youth academy of the now-defunct FC Pune City before heading to Europe. He trained and played in Portugal with clubs such as GDS Cascais and Estoril Praia B, followed by a stint in Spain with Ebre Escola Esportiva. After returning to India in mid-2023, Gupta quickly made an impact at FC Goa, recording 52 appearances in two seasons.
In 42 ISL appearances so far, Jay has two goals, three assists, 10 clean sheets, 23 interceptions, 51 successful tackles, 200 successful duels and 49 clearances across 2,860 minutes. His standout performance included earning the ISL Emerging Player of the Month award for October 2023.
Head Coach Oscar Bruzon praised the new recruit: “Jay is a talented left-footed full-back. His ability to push forward and contribute to the attack, combined with his defensive solidity, makes him a valuable asset. His impressive performances for FC Goa and international exposure are strong indicators of his quality.”
Inputs & Picture Courtesy: East Bengal Media
