East Bengal FC Announces Departure of Key Foreign Players Ahead of New Season

East Bengal FC Part Ways with Three Foreign Players

New Delhi [India] - On June 14, East Bengal FC, a prominent club in the Indian Super League (ISL), confirmed the exit of three foreign players: Hector Yuste, Rafael Messi Bouli, and Richard Celis.

Spanish defender Yuste was signed as the club's sixth foreign player for the upcoming 2024-25 season. Meanwhile, Messi Bouli and Celis joined the team during the winter transfer window, according to the official ISL website.

Despite facing injury challenges, Yuste made a significant impact by participating in 18 matches, accumulating 1354 minutes on the pitch. His contributions were vital in the team's build-up play, achieving an impressive 83% passing accuracy.

Yuste played a crucial role in East Bengal FC's defensive strategy, winning 42 duels, executing 11 tackles, and completing 69 recoveries along with 55 clearances. He also recorded 14 interceptions and 13 blocks, contributing to three clean sheets during the 2024-25 season.

Conversely, Messi Bouli and Celis joined the squad as the team dealt with injuries. Bouli, who previously played for Kerala Blasters FC in the 2019-20 season, made a notable return to the ISL with East Bengal FC. In just five appearances, he managed to score two goals and provide an assist, showcasing his talent in 353 minutes of play.

His exceptional footwork and creativity added a much-needed spark to East Bengal FC's gameplay, especially in the absence of Talal. Bouli created 10 chances, won 36 duels, and successfully executed two dribbles, maintaining a 16.67% goal conversion rate.

Celis, a newcomer to the league, participated in six matches during the 2024-25 season, demonstrating his dynamic abilities. Although he did not score, Celis was effective on the left side, creating four chances, winning 39 duels, and averaging 26 passes per game.