Defending champions East Bengal FC enter the CFL 2026 season with a balanced squad of experienced players, fresh signings and academy talents, targeting a winning start against George Telegraph.
Kolkata, July 11: With the Calcutta Football League returning to the Maidan, another chapter of Kolkata’s rich football tradition is set to unfold. East Bengal FC have completed their preparations for the Calcutta Football League 2026, and ready to kick off their CFL 2026 campaign, against George Telegraph, from 4:00 PM at East Bengal ground. With a balanced squad featuring experienced campaigners, new signings, and promising young talents.While respecting Ramirez Barreto’s George Telegraph side.
From the senior team, Vishnu PV and Jesin TK joined the squad four days ago. Head coach Bino George also rejoined the team four days ago after recovering from illness. Until then, the squad had been preparing with last season’s players along with several new signings under assistant coach Archisman biswas.
Among the new signings are goalkeeper Raunak Ghosh, experienced defender Subrata Santra, Akash Hemram, Debayan Hazra, Ankan Bhattacharya, Soumik Koley, Robi Das, Sandip Mandi, Muhammad Afsal, who recently played in the Kerala Super League and the striker Shine Bright, among others.
The squad also includes players from last season such as Manotosh Maji, Suman Mandi, Manotosh Chakladar, Gaurav Shaw, Ananthu, Joseph Justin, and Tanmoy Das. Additionally, youngsters from the club’s youth setup, including Prajjal Saha, Sonam, and Rapgay Lepcha, were part of the final training session on Saturday.
Speaking ahead of the opening match, assistant coach Archisman Biswas said the team is fully prepared for the new CFL season. He stressed that every player understands the responsibility of wearing the East Bengal jersey. While respecting George Telegraph, coached by East Bengal’s known opponent Ramirez Barreto, he said the squad is focused on making a positive start. He also welcomed the return of the Calcutta Football League to the Maidan and expects to see more fans in the stands this season.
As the defending champions, East Bengal FC begin their CFL 2026 campaign with the responsibility of living up to expectations. With a squad comprising experienced players, new signings, and promising youngsters, the Red & Gold Brigade will look to carry forward their last two season’s winning momentum. Their immediate focus is on making a positive start against George Telegraph before setting their sights on retaining the Calcutta Football League title.
Archisman Biswas – Asstt. Coach East Bengal FC
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