East Bengal FC has completed the signing of Indian full-back Jay Gupta from FC Goa for an undisclosed transfer fee, the Indian Super League (ISL) side officially announced on Tuesday.
The 23-year-old has signed a four-year contract and will wear number 27 for the Red-and-Gold Brigade. Jay played an important role in FC Goa’s Kalinga Super Cup triumph earlier this year, and the back-to-back ISL semifinal finished, including a second-place finish in the league phase last season.
“I made my national team debut in Kolkata last year, so it’s indeed special to now play for a big club like East Bengal from this great city,” Jay said.
“I can’t wait to make my debut for the Red & Gold Brigade, contribute to the team’s success, experience and win derbies, and bring joy to all the East Bengal supporters. Joy East Bengal!”
Hailing from Pune, Jay can operate as a left-back or left centre-back, bringing versatility to the Kolkata-based club’s backline.
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“Jay is a young and dynamic defender with immense potential and proven quality at both club and international levels. His arrival adds the versatility that we’ve been seeking in our first team’s backline,” Thangboi Singto, Head of Football at East Bengal, said.
After honing his skills in the youth ranks of the erstwhile FC Pune City, Jay ventured abroad, training and playing in Portugal with clubs like GDS Cascais and Estoril Praia B, and later in Spain with Ebre Escola Esportiva.
Returning to India in mid-2023, Jay quickly established himself at FC Goa, where he made 52 appearances over two seasons.
In 42 ISL appearances so far, Jay has two goals, three assists, 10 clean sheets, 23 interceptions, 51 successful tackles, 200 successful duels and 49 clearances across 2,860 minutes. His standout performance included earning the ISL Emerging Player of the Month award for October 2023.
East Bengal’s Head Coach Oscar Bruzon said, “Jay is a talented left-footed full-back. His ability to push forward and contribute to the attack, combined with his defensive solidity, makes him a valuable asset.
“His impressive performances for FC Goa and international exposure are strong indicators of his quality.”
Published on Sep 09, 2025
Content Source: sportstar.thehindu.com