In what promises to be a nostalgic moment for Mohun Bagan fans, ‘homegrown’ forward Kiyan Nassiri is all set for a return to the Kolkata giants ahead of the new season.
Kiyan, who was a part of Mohun Bagan’s title-winning I-League squad in 2019 and famously scored a historic hat-trick in the 2022 Kolkata Derby, had earned a special place in the hearts of the green-and-maroon faithful. However, a lack of consistent playing time saw him move to Chennaiyin FC last season, seeking more minutes on the pitch.
Despite being in head coach Owen Coyle’s plans at Chennaiyin, Kiyan struggled to find regular starts amid stiff competition in his preferred positions. Out of 15 matches, he started only six and failed to register a single goal, with just one assist to his name — a stint that clearly didn’t live up to expectations.
Keen on reigniting his career, Kiyan expressed a desire to return to Kolkata. His representatives reached out to Mohun Bagan Super Giant, and the club, too, showed strong interest in bringing him back. Sources indicate that the deal is now in its final stages, with an official contract expected to be signed either today or tomorrow. Given that Kiyan had a one-plus-one year contract with Chennaiyin FC, Mohun Bagan are set to pay a modest transfer fee to secure his services.
Interestingly, sources also reveal that Kiyan will earn slightly less at Mohun Bagan than what he did at Chennaiyin — a sign of his emotional attachment to his hometown club and the willingness to prioritise playing opportunities over financial gain.
Kiyan is likely to become Mohun Bagan’s first official signing of the ongoing transfer window, even as discussions continue with Brazilian defender Robson and Indian centre-back Mehtab Singh. His signing is expected to be formally announced by the club soon.
However, breaking into the starting XI won’t be straightforward for the versatile forward, who primarily plays as a right winger or a striker. With the likes of Suhail Bhat, Salahuddin and Manvir Singh competing for similar roles, Kiyan will have to prove his mettle during training to convince new head coach Jose Molina.
But those close to the player insist that he is ready for the challenge — determined to make a strong impression and reclaim his place in the side where it all began.
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