Emami East Bengal FC is thrilled to announce the signing of Indian national team defensive stalwart Anwar Ali on a permanent transfer from Delhi FC. Anwar has committed to a 5-year contract with the club, with the transfer fee remaining undisclosed.
Welcoming Anwar to the Emami East Bengal family, Mr. Vibhash Vardhan Agarwal of the Emami Group expressed his excitement, saying, “Anwar is among the best defenders in the country and a regular starter for the national team. Emami has been closely following his progress for a long time, and when the opportunity arose, we couldn’t pass it up. He is one of the finest in India, and we believe this signing brings us closer to achieving our goals.”
Head Coach Carles Cuadrat added, “With Anwar, we have secured another national team player who will bring invaluable experience to our squad. His quality and physical presence are key to the team we are building for the future. It’s crucial for players to believe in the coach’s vision before joining a new project, and I’m pleased to see how some of the young talents in Indian football recognize that Emami East Bengal is the club where they can elevate their careers.”
Anwar, a cornerstone of the Indian national team’s defense, has earned 22 caps since his international debut in March 2022. He played a significant role in India’s victories in the Tri-Nation series (2023), the Intercontinental Cup (2023), and the SAFF Championship (2023). The 23-year-old has represented India at all age levels, from U-17 to the senior team, and was a key member of the Indian squad that competed in the U-17 FIFA World Cup in 2017 on home soil.
For the Latest Sports News: Click Here
Anwar began his career in the youth setup at Minerva Academy and gained recognition while playing for the AIFF’s developmental side in 2017. In the Indian Super League, Anwar has made 46 appearances since 2021. Beyond being one of the country’s top center-backs, Anwar has also showcased his ability to contribute offensively. Last season, he scored 3 goals, provided 1 assist across 26 matches, and was the top scorer for Delhi FC in the 2021 I-League Qualifiers with 4 goals.
In the previous ISL season, Anwar registered 4 clean sheets, 18 interceptions, 17 tackles, 45 successful duels, 19 successful aerial duels, 9 blocks, 67 recoveries, 52 clearances, and 549 successful passes in 16 matches.
Expressing his excitement about joining Emami East Bengal FC, Anwar said, “I am honored and excited to don the Red & Gold jersey. The warm welcome I received at Kolkata Airport was overwhelming, and the fans have already shown me immense love and support. I am committed to dedicating the best years of my career to this iconic club and its passionate fans. Every time I step onto the field, I want to make our fans proud and happy. Joy East Bengal!”
The player registration is pending the completion of regulatory processes.
Also Read: East Bengal vs Altyn Asyr: Key Clash in AFC Champions League Two Preliminary Stage