There is some concern regarding East Bengal’s decision to recruit their new striker, Youssef Ezzejjari, from the Singaporean club Tanjong Pagar. Most opinions fall into two camps: those who see it as a “smart scouting move”, and those who view it as “another reckless decision driven by sheer necessity”.
The club is attempting to replace Hamid Ahadad and Hiroshi Ibusuki, underlining the desperate need for a striker who can deliver immediate results. With little margin for error and virtually no time for acclimatisation, this recruitment represents both an “educated risk” and a leap of faith for East Bengal.
On paper, the Indian Super League (ISL) appears to be a notch above most of the leagues Ezzejjari has previously played in. However, footballing success is not determined solely by the quality or prestige of a league. This is where Ezzejjari’s profile becomes particularly interesting.
Born in Spain and of Moroccan descent, Ezzejjari could prove to be the right fit
One of his biggest strengths is his exposure to South and Southeast Asian footballing conditions. While many foreign recruits struggle with the climate and environment, Ezzejjari is already well acclimatised, having played in Indonesia, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. This experience could significantly shorten his adjustment period in India.
Another major positive is his consistency with relatively weaker teams. Ezzejjari has often developed a habit of scoring goals without elite support around him. This is especially relevant for an East Bengal side that creates a decent number of chances per match, and it could unlock the best version of the Spanish-Moroccan No. 9.
His career path also reflects a certain strength of character. Ezzejjari has represented eight clubs across various leagues. Notably, he finished as the top scorer in the Andorran league during the 2020–21 season. More recently, he recorded the second-highest scoring ratio in the Cambodian top division during the 2023–24 campaign, and leaves the Singaporean league as its leading goal-scorer.
Another area where Ezzejjari could be valuable is his mindset. In an interview a few months ago, he spoke openly about his enjoyment of immersing himself in new cultures, leagues, and countries. Adaptability, for Ezzejjari, appears to be a defining trait.
The Risks That Should Not Be Overlooked
That said, the concerns surrounding Ezzejjari are both real and valid. The ISL is faster and more physical than most leagues he has played in. Defenders close down space more quickly, transitions are sharper, and aerial duels are fiercely contested. Adapting to this intensity, particularly as the focal point of the attack, will be a challenge.
Time is another crucial factor. East Bengal cannot afford to wait. The season demands instant impact, and Ezzejjari will be expected to deliver from his very first appearance. Any prolonged adaptation period could work against him, regardless of his past achievements.
There is also the question of exposure to elite footballing environments. Ezzejjari has not enjoyed sustained experience in leagues where tactical discipline, defensive organisation, and physical intensity are consistently high. The ISL has grown significantly, and has reached a level where foreign strikers are expected to be decisive week in, week out.
Verdict: A Calculated Gamble, Not Blind Change
So, is this a stroke of brilliance or an unjustified gamble? The answer likely lies somewhere in between. Ezzejjari is not a marquee signing in the traditional sense, either for East Bengal or Indian football as a whole. However, the move suggests a profile-based approach, with the club perhaps valuing hunger and efficiency over star power.
If Ezzejjari can translate his movement, finishing, and mental toughness onto the pitch, East Bengal may have found the striker they urgently need. If patience and time are in short supply, however, the gamble could quickly be exposed.
Ultimately, Ezzejjari’s signing reflects East Bengal’s current reality: pragmatic, under pressure, and searching for immediate solutions.
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