Anwar Ali joins East Bengal on a Five-Year contract from Delhi FC

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East Bengal has announced the permanent signing of Indian defender Anwar Ali from Delhi FC.

The former Mohun Bagan defender joins the city rivals on a five-year deal, which is a rarity in Indian football. The contract means Anwar is tied down at the club till the 2028-29 season.

Anwar Ali played 16 matches for Mohun Bagan last season and helped them to win the ISL shield title. He has been one of the top centre-backs in the country, representing India 22 times since making his debut in 2022. The defender was poised to leave the Mariners in the summer but his arrival to East Bengal was derailed due to some legal issues.

The player's move was halted due to Mohun Bagan's interference where they claimed unlawful termination and a breach of contract, which Anwar signed at Mohun Bagan. But Anwar was given NOC by AIFF recently, which allowed him to go back to his parent club Delhi FC.

Emami East Bengal FC Head Coach Carles Cuadrat was also delighted to finally land one of his elusive targets.

"In Anwar we have got another national team player who will give us much-needed experience at the top level and the quality and physicality in the squad that we are trying to build for the next few years. It's essential for players to believe in what you are doing as a coach, before joining a new project. I am happy to see how some young players in Indian football have realized this season that Emami East Bengal is the club where they can take the next step in their careers," Cuadrat said.

The player spoke to East Bengal's official media and expressed his delight to join the Red and Gold brigade.

"I am honoured and excited to wear the Red & Gold jersey. The reception that I got at the Kolkata Airport was overwhelming and the fans have already shown me a lot of love and support. I want to dedicate the best years of my career to this iconic club and its passionate fans. Every time I take the field, I want to make our fans proud and happy. Joy East Bengal," Anwar said.

He is likely to feature for East Bengal in the AFC Champions League 2 match against Altyn Asyr on Wednesday, or he may make debut against Mohun Bagan in the Durand Cup on Sunday (August 18).