East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan: Three Players who may not play any part in Kolkata Derby

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The all-important Kolkata Derby is set to take place on Sunday (March 10) at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata.

East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, two arch-rivals of Indian football will collide in a monumental clash at the eternal mecca of Indian football, and the outcome of it may have season-defining consequences for either side.

East Bengal's disappointing away run continued with a recent defeat at the hands of FC Goa, and as they face their city rivals, the players will be desperate to make things right. A win is absolutely imperative for the Red and Gold Brigade, and any less than that will pose a threat in their quest for the playoffs.

On the other hand, Mohun Bagan have equal importance as they chase the ISL Shield this season. A win will take them level on points with Mumbai City and Odisha FC, but the Mariners would still have the advantage with a game in hand.

Growing up, any Indian footballer dreams of taking part in the exhilarating Kolkata Derby. The city is divided into two halves and on the ground, the atmosphere creates an unimaginable chaos which not only rushes the adrenaline but inspires a footballer to perform and showcase his mettle at the highest level.

East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan: Three Players who may not play

But as we speak, three players across two teams may not have a chance to taste this upcoming derby on Sunday. Let's have a look at them-

Mohammed Rakip (East Bengal)

Mohammed Rakip has been more of a regular in the squad after his decent showing in the Kalinga Super Cup. The young right-back of East Bengal has been a decent player, but made a few mistakes in the last couple of matches. He came on as a substitute in East Bengal's last match against FC Goa and received a Yellow Card straight away, which took his Yellow Card tally to Four. And due to that, Rakip won't play any part in the Kolkata Derby.

Harmanjot Khabra (East Bengal)

Harmanjot Khabra made a return to East Bengal this season. The 35-year-old has been associated with the Kolkata club from his earlier days and has played a key part for them before. But he hasn't been a regular for them in recent times and Carles Cuadrat may opt to sit the veteran right-back out for this match as well.

Glan Martins (Mohun Bagan)

Glan Martins has looked like a weakling in the Mohun Bagan midfield all season. The former FC Goa player last played for the Mariners against Hyderabad in February and hasn't featured for them in the last few matches. As Antonio Habas picks his team for the East Bengal clash, Martins is unlikely to find a place.