East Bengal FC announced the signing of U23 player Mark Zothanpuia on a three-year contract that will run until the end of the 2026-27 season, on Saturday.
He is a versatile footballer who can play in both midfield and defense.
Zothanpuia was part of FC Pune City’s youth team and Hyderabad FC’s reserve team before being promoted to Hyderabad FC’s first team in the 2020-21 season. Zothanpuia was part of HFC’s 2021-22 ISL Cup-winning squad.
He played a total of 1,971 minutes across 24 matches, (18 in the Indian Super League (ISL), three in the Kalinga Super Cup and three in the Durand Cup) and played as left-back, left wing-back, defensive midfielder and center-back in last season.
“Mark is a young player with excellent qualities. His versatility will allow us to consider him for different roles to help the team. He has gained a decent amount of ISL experience and is joining Emami East Bengal at the right phase of his career, to reach the next level as a player. We’ll give him the right environment to ensure his growth and success,” East Bengal FC Head Coach Carles Cuadrat said.
Zothanpuia said, “It’s a dream for any young Indian player to play for a big club like East Bengal. Kolkata is the Mecca of Indian football and I can’t wait to experience the amazing support from the East Bengal fans. “I am grateful to Coach Carles and the Emami East Bengal management for showing faith in me.”
Picture Courtesy: East Bengal Media
