Field Vision

Kolkata football giants East Bengal have bolstered their midfield ahead of the upcoming season with the signings of Palestinian international Mohammed Rashid and Brazilian midfielder Miguel Figueira. The duo becomes the latest additions to the Red and Gold brigade as the club continues its squad overhaul under the guidance of head coach Oscar Bruzon.

Miguel Figueira, a Brazilian playmaker known for his creative prowess and composure in midfield, reunites with Bruzon after the two enjoyed a successful stint at Bangladesh Premier League club Bashundhara Kings. Figueira, who began his professional career at Goiás Esporte Clube in Brazil’s top-flight, spent three years at the club before moving to Bangladesh. During his tenure at Bashundhara Kings, he won three league titles and was instrumental in their domestic dominance.

Palestinian midfielder Mohammed Rashid brings a different profile to the squad. Known for his defensive solidity and tactical discipline, Rashid last played for Persebaya Surabaya in the Indonesian Liga 1, following a stint at Bali United. The 29-year-old is expected to add much-needed steel in the center of the park for East Bengal, providing balance alongside more attack-minded options.

A club source confirmed the signings on condition of anonymity, saying, “Miguel and Rashid both have signed contracts with the club and they are East Bengal players. The coach insisted on these players and the management has given the coach what he wanted.”

ICYMI: Shameel Chembakath – A Journey with Football.

These signings are part of East Bengal’s broader recruitment strategy for the 2025-26 season. As things stand, the club is likely to have eight foreigners in their squad. However, the final composition will hinge on the recovery status of two key foreign players—Madih Talal and Hijazi Maher—who are currently nursing long-term injuries.

East Bengal likely to have 8 foreigners this year: Sources

The club is yet to receive full clarity on their fitness, and while they are unwilling to terminate contracts with foreign players who are on multi-year deals, they may reassess later in the transfer window with Talal and Hijazi are out with injury .

“The club is looking to sign 8 foreigners at this stage, but the number could change depending on how Madih Talal and Hijazi Maher recover in upcoming months,” the source added while speaking exclusively to FieldVision.

It is understood that four of the club’s foreign players, who are on extended contracts, are expected to be involved in the upcoming campaign. The club has chosen not to terminate their deals, especially after the players placed a precondition that all dues be paid in advance in case of a termination as revealed by FieldVision earlier . This has led the management to adopt a more cautious approach as they navigate contract obligations alongside new signings.

With the arrival of Figueira and Rashid, East Bengal’s midfield looks significantly strengthened, providing coach Bruzon with more flexibility and depth as the team prepares for the new season. The club is expected to make further moves in the market, especially if injury updates necessitate additional foreign signings.

At Fieldvision, We Salute the Bravery and Valour of the Indian Armed Forces. Support our soldiers by donating directly to the National Defence Fund here.

Follow Fieldvision on Youtube ,Twitter , Facebook Instagram and Whatsapp Channel for more updates.