Miguel Figueira Joins Mohun Bagan: ISL Golden Ball Winner Promises Derby Glory to Mariners after leaving East Bengal

East Bengal's ISL-winning midfielder Miguel Figueira Damasceno has taken his journey to another step after completing his move to Mohun Bagan Super Giant, as the club announced on Friday.

The reigning ISL Golden Ball winner has signed a two-year contract with the Kolkata giants, arriving after a standout campaign with East Bengal.

Miguel enjoyed an impressive debut season in Indian football, playing a key role in East Bengal's title-winning run. The 26-year-old attacking midfielder was named the tournament's Best Player after finishing the season with two goals and five assists in 12 ISL appearances.

Before moving to India, Miguel made a name for himself in Bangladesh with Bashundhara Kings, where he spent three successful seasons, helping the club win multiple honours. Having also featured in Brazil's Serie A earlier in his career, the creative midfielder now joins one of India's biggest clubs as Mohun Bagan strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign.

Speaking to the MBSG Media Team from Brazil, Miguel said he cannot wait to experience the atmosphere created by Mohun Bagan supporters.

"Mohun Bagan supporters are very passionate and lively, much like Brazilian supporters. Having played in Kolkata for a year, I have seen the love the Green-and-Maroon supporters have for the team. They fill the galleries with expectations and emotions. For them, nothing matters more than winning matches and lifting trophies and they are prepared to give everything for that dream. I thrive under that expectation to become champions; it's a kind of pressure I genuinely enjoy. I'm eagerly awaiting the opportunity to don the Green-and-Maroon jersey. The thought of stepping onto the pitch in those colours, in front of the finest supporters of the country's best club, is something that excites me tremendously," the player said to the club.

The Brazilian also revealed that accepting Mohun Bagan's offer was a decision made after careful discussions with his family.

"When the offer came from Mohun Bagan Super Giant, I first informed my wife about it. After all, an opportunity to join the best club in the country is something that deserves serious consideration. So, the two of us had long discussions about it for several days. Simultaneously, discussions continued with the club regarding various matters. Finally, I decided that I will play for Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the new season," he added.

Miguel believes Mohun Bagan's winning mentality aligns perfectly with his own ambitions. While he enjoys creating chances more than scoring goals, he is already looking forward to linking up with Australian striker Jamie Maclaren.

"I've had the experience of playing against Mohun Bagan, so I know exactly how demanding those matches can be. The supporters in Green-and-Maroon think of nothing but winning and becoming champions. That's why, whether it's the ISL, the Durand Cup, the Super Cup or any other competition, my objective will always be to help the team fight for the title. More than scoring goals, I love to provide assists. In the strike force, I will have a natural goal scorer like Jamie Maclaren. I want to show some magic on the field with Maclaren. I want to also enjoy some good goal celebration moments with him."

Miguel gives message for Kolkata Derby

The midfielder also sent a strong message ahead of the Kolkata Derby, promising to give everything to ensure Mohun Bagan come out on top whenever they face their city rivals.

"The Kolkata Derby is always a special occasion. I understand what this match means to the supporters and the emotions attached to it. No other match day compares to the Derby day. This season, I'll have the privilege of playing in the Derby wearing the Green-and-Maroon jersey. Rest assured, Green-and-Maroon supporters, wherever and in whichever tournament the Derby takes place, Mohun Bagan will win and I will give my one hundred per cent to make them win. Winning a Derby lifts the mood for the entire week, while defeat means carrying that disappointment for days. I do not want to give that pain to the members and supporters," the Brazilian continued.