East Bengal have bolstered their attacking lineup with the signing of Japanese forward Hiroshi Ibusuki on a free transfer, the Indian Super League (ISL) club confirmed on Wednesday. The 34-year-old has inked a deal that will keep him at the Kolkata-based club until the end of the 2025-26 season.
Ibusuki steps in to replace Greek striker Dimitrios Diamantakos, who parted ways with East Bengal earlier this month following a mutual agreement. The new signing is expected to bring experience, aerial threat, and finishing prowess to the Red-and-Gold Brigade’s frontline.
The Japanese striker was most recently part of Australian A-League side Western United. However, after the club was dissolved at the end of the previous season, Ibusuki—along with the rest of the squad and head coach John Aloisi—was released, paving the way for his move to India.
Expressing his excitement at joining one of India’s most storied football clubs, Ibusuki said, “This club has an incredible history and an amazing fan base, which makes it so popular in Asian football. I am honored to be part of such an iconic outfit and help the team chase silverware in the upcoming tournaments.”
He added, “Some of my compatriots have already tasted success with East Bengal, and now I can’t wait to follow in their footsteps.”
Ibusuki’s career has spanned multiple continents. He began in the youth ranks of Kashiwa Reysol in Japan before moving to Spain in 2009 to join Girona FC. Two years later, he signed for La Liga side Sevilla FC. His European stint eventually came to a close as he returned to Japan, turning out for clubs like Albirex Niigata, JEF United Chiba, Shonan Bellmare, and Shimizu S-Pulse.
East Bengal head coach Oscar Bruzon praised the club’s latest acquisition, highlighting Ibusuki’s attributes. “Hiroshi is an experienced and classic centre-forward. His game style is defined by his physical presence, ability to win aerial duels, clinical finishing and link-up skills. He has played for elite clubs in various countries and has a reputation for being a deadly finisher,” Bruzon stated.
As East Bengal aim to return to the top of Indian football, the addition of a seasoned forward like Ibusuki could prove vital in their quest for domestic and continental glory.
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