East Bengal SNATCH I-League Sensation Martand Raina! The NEW Wall of Kolkata Revealed!

East Bengal FC have pulled off a significant transfer achievement, securing the hand of largely- rated defender Martand Raina from Rajasthan United FC on a three- time contract! blazoned on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, this move signals serious intent from the Kolkata titans as they make towards the forthcoming Indian Super League( ISL) season under Oscar Bruzon.

Martand Raina is not just another protector; he is a 24- time-old sensation who lit up the 2024- 25 I- League with his fostering performances. Primarily a centre- reverse but also able in protective midfield, Raina surfaced as one of the alternate division’s brightest bents. His stats tell a compelling story.

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• 21 Appearances for Rajasthan United last season.
• 1,766 Minutes of consistent action.
• 4 Goals Scored – making him the I-League’s highest-scoring centre-back!

But Raina offers far more than just goals. He possesses a rare blend of attributes for an Indian defender:

• Aerial Dominance: A towering presence crucial for defending and attacking set-pieces.
• Ball Progression: Comfortable carrying the ball out from the back, initiating attacks.
• Intelligent Interceptions: Reads the game well to snuff out danger.
• Set-Piece Threat: A proven goalscorer from corners and free-kicks.

Beating the ISL Giants: Why Martand Raina is Such a Prized Signing

East Bengal did not have a clear run at Martand Raina. His name season touched off a fierce transfer battle, with at least six ISL clubs reportedly fighting for his hand. Heavyweights like Mumbai City FC, Punjab FC, and Hyderabad FC were each linked, pressing just how largely he is rated across Indian football. East Bengal’s successful pursuit is a major statement of their ambition and pulling power. Securing a player of his implicit and proven thickness from the I- League is a smart piece of business.

The new Red & Gold bridged is understandably agitated. Speaking after putting pen to paper, Raina expressed his pride and connection

MARTAND IS A TORCH BEARER!! 👊#JoyEastBengal #EastBengalFC #EBFC pic.twitter.com/DKTmzBfxrf

— Tᴏʀᴄʜ Bᴇᴀʀᴇʀs 🔴🟡 (@torch__bearers) July 9, 2025

“I am honored to join a club with such a rich legacy and passionate fan base. I am no stranger to Bengal football, having represented Adamas United previously. This is a huge opportunity for me as I look forward to contributing to East Bengal’s success and making the supporters proud through my performances.”

His prior experience in Bengal (with Adamas United) means he understands the unique passion and pressure that comes with playing in Kolkata – a valuable asset.

Building for the Future: Bruzon’s Defensive Reinforcement

Head Coach Oscar Bruzon and Head of Football Thangboi Singto are easily erecting a robust team for the long term. Raina’s signing, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2027- 28 season, is a foundation of that plan. They did not hold back their praise

Thangboi Singto: “Martand Raina is a key addition to our squad as we aim to solidify our defense and build a competitive team. His consistency caught our eye and we believe he’s ready for the next level.”

Oscar Bruzon: “Raina was one of the most effective and consistent performers in the I-League. His signing will strengthen our backline and increase competition for starting positions.”

This move comes alongside the contract renewal of Kerala sensation PV Vishnu, also secured until 2028. Bruzon has suggested that Raina’s appearance is just the morning of East Bengal’s summer transfer exertion, promising further” strong signings” to come.

What Does Martand Raina Bring to East Bengal?

Defensive Solidity: His physicality, upstanding capability, and reading of the game will incontinently bolster a backline that demanded underpinning.

Goal Threat: A centre- reverse who scores 4 pretensions in a season adds a fully new dimension, especially from set- pieces – a vital source of pretensions in tight games.

Build-Up Play: Play His comfort on the ball aligns with ultramodern protective conditions, allowing East Bengal to play out more effectively.

Healthy Competition: His appearance pushes being protectors and raises the overall standard in training and matches.

Long-Term Stability: At 24, Raina has his high times ahead and is tied down for three seasons.

A Statement Signing for the Red & Gold

East Bengal’s accession of Martand Raina is further than just a new player; it’s a signal of intent. Beating out ISL competition for one of the I- League’s most emotional protectors shows the club’s ambition under the Emami banner and Oscar Bruzon’s vision. Raina brings pretensions, fortitude, and ultramodern protective rates to the Maidan.

Get ready, East Bengal suckers! With Raina slipping the notorious# 16 jersey and further signings potentially on the horizon, the excitement is erecting for the 2025- 26 ISL crusade. The Red & Gold Brigade just got significantly stronger at the back