East Bengal Announce Contract Extension of Club Captain Cleiton Silva

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East Bengal FC has officially announced a one-year contract extension for their Brazilian captain, Cleiton Silva, securing his presence until the end of the 2024-25 season.

Cleiton Silva has been instrumental in East Bengal's recent successes, most notably as the top-scorer in their triumphant Super Cup campaign earlier this year. His contributions have been pivotal, with his extra-time winner in the Super Cup final ending a 12-year trophy drought for the club at the national level.

His impact has also been felt in the Indian Super League (ISL), where he has scored the most goals for the Red & Golds.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the extension, Cleiton Silva said, "I've always given my best for our fans and our badge. Winning the Super Cup with East Bengal will always be one of the greatest moments of my career." His dedication to the club and its supporters has been evident throughout his tenure, and this contract extension is a testament to his integral role in the team.

East Bengal FC head coach Carles Cuadrat praised Silva's leadership, stating, "Cleiton leads the team by example. East Bengal fans will forever remember his extra-time winner in the Super Cup final, which ended our 12-year trophy drought at the national level. We are happy to continue working with a top professional like him."

With Silva's extension, East Bengal now boasts an impressive roster of top scorers from India's major domestic tournaments. Alongside Silva, who excelled in the Super Cup, the team includes Dimitrios Diamantakos, the top scorer of the ISL, and David Lalhlansanga, the Durand Cup top scorer.

Since joining East Bengal from Bengaluru FC in 2022, Cleiton Silva has played 4,594 minutes across 55 games for the club, scoring 27 goals and providing eight assists. His consistency is highlighted by his 18 goal contributions (14 goals and 4 assists) in his debut season with East Bengal, followed by 17 goal contributions (13 goals and 4 assists) in the subsequent season. Silva's overall record in Indian football includes 46 goals and 18 assists, making him one of the most successful overseas forwards in recent years. Notably, he is the sixth-highest scorer in ISL history with 36 goals. Silva, who will turn 38 next year, continues to defy age with his remarkable performances and fitness levels.

This contract extension ensures that East Bengal will continue to benefit from Cleiton Silva's experience, skill, and leadership as they strive for further success in the upcoming season.