Kolkata, June 2, 2025 – East Bengal FC has set the Indian Super League (ISL) abuzz with the blockbuster signing of Bipin Singh Thounaojam, the fleet-footed winger from Manipur, on a multi-year deal. The 30-year-old joins the Red and Gold Brigade as a free agent from Mumbai City FC, bringing a wealth of experience and a knack for delivering in clutch moments. The announcement, confirmed after Bipin’s medical in May 2025, has sparked excitement and debate among fans as East Bengal gears up for a defining 2025-26 ISL season.

Quick read: 

– Bipin Singh joins East Bengal on a multi-year deal from Mumbai City FC for the 2025-26 ISL season.  

– Proven winner with 2 ISL Cups, 2 ISL Shields, and 28 goals in 158 Mumbai City appearances.  

– Fits Bruzon’s vision with his pace and flair, aiming to revive his form in Kolkata.  

– Faces high expectations in Kolkata’s passionate football scene, with some doubting his peak at 30.

 A Proven Winner Lands in Kolkata

Bipin Singh is no stranger to silverware. With 158 appearances for Mumbai City FC since 2018, he’s their most-capped player, racking up 28 goals and 7 assists. His trophy cabinet boasts two ISL Cups (2020-21, 2023-24) and two ISL Shields (2020-21, 2022-23). Who can forget his thunderous strike in the 2021 ISL final against ATK Mohun Bagan or his decisive goal in the 2023-24 final? These moments cemented Bipin’s reputation as a big-game player. Yet, after a quieter 2024-25 season with just one goal in 21 ISL games, the winger is hungry to rediscover his magic in Kolkata.

 Why East Bengal?

East Bengal’s pursuit of Bipin was no secret, with negotiations making headlines as early as May 2025. Head coach Oscar Bruzon, known for his love of dynamic, attacking football, sees Bipin as the perfect fit for his system. The Manipuri star’s blistering pace, tricky dribbling, and ability to cut inside from the wings align seamlessly with Bruzon’s vision of fast, free-flowing football. For Bipin, this move is a homecoming of sorts—he previously played in Kolkata with ATK in 2017-18, where his stunning free-kick goal remains etched in fans’ memories.

“Bipin’s experience and flair will be crucial for us,” an East Bengal official said. “He’s a proven winner, and we believe he can thrive under the passionate Kolkata spotlight.”

 A Fresh Start with High Stakes

While Bipin’s signing has ignited hope among East Bengal’s fervent supporters, it’s not without its skeptics. Former players like Mehtab Hussain and Alvito D’Cunha have raised eyebrows, questioning whether the 30-year-old can recapture his peak form. “He’s a talent, no doubt, but Kolkata’s pressure is unique,” Mehtab cautioned. Fans on X are divided—some hail Bipin as the spark East Bengal needs, while others wonder if his best days are behind him.

For Bipin, this move is more than a club switch; it’s a chance to reignite his career and push for a return to the Indian national team. The passionate Red and Gold faithful will demand nothing less than his all, and with Bruzon’s attacking setup, the stage is set for Bipin to shine.

 What’s Next?

As East Bengal prepares for the 2025-26 ISL season, all eyes will be on how Bipin adapts to the cauldron of Kolkata football. Can he weave his magic on the wings and lead East Bengal to glory? Or will the weight of expectation prove too heavy? One thing’s certain: Bipin Singh’s journey with the Red and Gold promises to be a thrilling ride.

Stay tuned for more updates as East Bengal builds a squad ready to conquer the ISL!

 #BipinSingh #EastBengalFC #ISL2025