Raphael Messi Bouli becomes 3rd Cameroon player to join East Bengal - Who are the other Two?

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East Bengal's newest addition Raphael Messi Bouli arrived in Kolkata on Friday (February 7).

The Cameroonian forward has been signed by the ISL club until the end of the season and is expected to play a crucial part in their remaining encounters, in ISL and the AFC Challenge League.

Bouli, who is also known as Messi B, has played 6 times for the Cameroon international team and has represented Kerala Blasters in the past, where he scored 8 goals during the 2019-20 season.

The Red and Gold brigade have high hopes for the player, who joined his teammates during the training as East Bengal prepare for the ISL clash against Chennaiyin FC. As the 32-year-old takes centre stage, interestingly, he is only the third Cameroonian to ever represent the century-old Kolkata outfit.

Although East Bengal possess a strong history and link with African players, Cameroon is a country which they haven't delved so much over the years. But still, two players from Cameroon have played for East Bengal, Ngassa Guy Martial and Ndem Guy Herve.

Ngassa Guy Martial

Position: Defender
East Bengal Tenure: 2006-07

Career Highlights:

Prior to joining East Bengal, Ngassa played for clubs in Hong Kong, including Double Flower and Fukien. After his stint with East Bengal, he continued his career in Hong Kong, before retiring in 2014.

Ndem Guy Herve

Position: Midfielder
East Bengal Tenure: 2005-06

Career Highlights:

Before joining East Bengal, Ndem played for Mohun Bagan in the 2003-2004 season. After his time with East Bengal, he transferred to Mohammedan Sporting Club in 2007. He retired from professional football in 2007.

East Bengal's hopes for ISL playoffs are in disarray and the Red and Gold Briage will need a monumental effort and help from other teams to find themselves in the final phase of the season. With six league matches left to play, it is to be seen how Messi Bouli impacts their prospects.