Former ATKMB custodian Arindam Bhattacharya joins ISL outfit SC East Bengal

Indian Super League’s Golden Glove winner from last season, Arindam Bhattacharya, has left ATK Mohun Bagan by mutual agreement and has now joined SC East Bengal. He has joined the Red and Golds after penning a one year deal with the Kolkata Giants.

Arindam was one of the most pivotal players for ATKMB last season as he guided the Mariners to the ISL finals and second-placed finish in the league stage. While a lot of clubs were interested in the Bengali custodian, Arindam decided to join SC East Bengal.

“I am glad to be here. I can’t wait for the season to start. I want to win as many games as possible for SC East Bengal, and keep as many clean sheets as possible,” said Arindam after completing his move to the Red and Golds.

The 32-year-old custodian assured that he will keep the dressing room cheerful and believes a friendly team off the field performs well on the pitch. He also revealed how fans wanted him to stay in Kolkata rather than moving somewhere else.

“I will also try and keep the dressing room very tight and together. That’s how you win trophies and that’s what I will try and do in this team.” Arindam Bhattacharya revealed his family members are East Bengal supporters and it was a no-brainer when the opportunity came his way. I got a lot of messages, saying ‘dada (elder brother)’ don’t leave Kolkata. To be honest, that motivated me a lot and that is one of the reasons (for me joining East Bengal).

“At home, my father and my grandfather are East Bengal supporters. I have never played for East Bengal in my entire career spanning 16 years. So when the opportunity came along this time, I grabbed it with both hands.

“We all know the legacy of this club and I will put my best foot forward every day to keep the red and gold flag flying high,” added Arindam who will be standing in between the sticks for SC East Bengal.

Starting from the fabled Tata Football Academy, Arindam has featured in Indian football for over a decade and is still going strong. He has plied his trade for clubs like Churchill Brothers, Sporting Club de Goa, Pune City FC, Bharat FC, Bengaluru FC, ATK and ATK Mohun Bagan. He played a key role in ATK’s title charge in the 2019-20 season.