Kolkata, September 17: Emami East Bengal FC have officially announced the signing of Japanese striker Hiroshi Ibusuki for the 2025-26 season. The 34-year-old forward arrives from Australian A-League side Western United FC, adding vast experience, pedigree, and proven goal-scoring ability to the Red & Gold Brigade’s frontline. His arrival comes after the departure of Greek striker Dimitrios Diamantakos, who led the line for East Bengal last season. While Diamantakos played a key role during his stint, the club now looks to Hiroshi Ibusuki’s towering presence and clinical finishing to fill the gap to their attack in the new campaign.

Standing at 6 feet 5 inches, Hiroshi Ibusuki has earned a reputation as a powerful striker, well-known for his aerial strength, clinical finishing, and ability to deliver in big matches. Over the course of his career, he has scored more than 120 goals across multiple leagues in Asia, Europe, and Australia.

Career Journey of Hiroshi Ibusuki Across Continents:

Hiroshi Ibusuki began his European adventure in 2009 with Girona FC in Spain, before gaining valuable experience on loan at Real Zaragoza B and CE Sabadell. His big break came with Sevilla FC, where he featured for both the reserve side and the senior team, even making a notable debut in a high-stakes derby against Real Betis. Subsequent stints included K.A.S. Eupen (Belgium) and Valencia CF’s reserves, further shaping his development in Europe.

In 2014, he returned to Japan and turned out for Albirex Niigata, JEF United Chiba, Shonan Bellmare, and Shimizu S-Pulse, consistently delivering goals in the J-League. His move to Australia’s A-League with Adelaide United in 2022 proved highly successful, as he became a prolific scorer, before switching to Western United FC in 2024. Now, in 2025, Hiroshi Ibusuki takes on a new challenge in India with historic club Emami East Bengal FC.

International Pedigree:

At the international level, Hiroshi Ibusuki has represented Japan’s youth teams, including the U-19 (4 goals in 4 matches) and the U-23 squad, underlining his pedigree as a striker trusted on big stages.

Coach’s Confidence:

Speaking about the signing, Emami East Bengal Head Coach Oscar Bruzon said:
“Hiroshi is an experienced and classic centre-forward. His game style is defined by his physical presence, ability to win aerial duels, clinical finishing and link-up skills. He has played for elite clubs in various countries and has a reputation for being a deadly finisher.”

This highlights that the coach views Hiroshi Ibusuki as the ideal traditional No. 9 East Bengal were seeking, a player with height, strength, and finishing prowess to spearhead the attack.

Player’s Excitement:

On joining East Bengal, Ibusuki expressed his words:
“This club has an incredible history and an amazing fan base, which makes it so popular in Asian football. I am honored to be part of such an iconic outfit and help the team chase silverware in the upcoming tournaments. Some of my compatriots have already tasted success with East Bengal, and now I can’t wait to follow in their footsteps. Joy East Bengal”

At 34, Hiroshi Ibusuki brings not just goals but also invaluable experience from around the world. His addition marks a significant boost for Emami East Bengal FC as they look to challenge for silverware in the 2025-26 season.