Indian Super League (ISL) club East Bengal has announced the signing of Venezuelan forward Richard Celis until the end of the 2024-25 season. The 28-year-old becomes the Red-and-Gold Brigade’s first winter signing and is set to replace attacking midfielder Madih Talal, who has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.
Celis, who last played for Venezuelan top-tier club Academia Puerto Cabello in October 2024, brings considerable experience to East Bengal. The versatile forward has represented Venezuela in the prestigious Copa America, featuring in the squad that faced Brazil in a 0-3 defeat in the previous edition. He is capable of playing as a left winger or center-forward, offering head coach Oscar Bruzon multiple tactical options.
“We expect Richard’s talent, skills, commitment, and determination to embody East Bengal’s values. We hope he’ll make a significant impact as we strive together for immediate success,” said Bruzon, welcoming the Venezuelan international to the squad.
Celis has had an illustrious career, playing for prominent Venezuelan clubs such as Atletico Venezuela CF, Deportivo JBL, Caracas FC, and Academia Puerto Cabello. He has also had international stints with Colombia’s Millonarios FC and Slovakia’s FK Senica. Among his career highlights are helping Caracas FC secure the Venezuelan Primera Division title in 2019 and contributing to Millonarios’ Copa Colombia triumph three years later.
Expressing his excitement about joining East Bengal, Celis said, “I am thrilled to join East Bengal — a club with such a rich history and passionate fans. This is a new chapter in my career, and I can’t wait to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead in Indian football.”
With East Bengal aiming for a strong finish to the ISL season, Celis is expected to play a crucial role in bolstering the team’s attacking capabilities. His arrival adds depth and international experience to the squad as they push for success in the remaining fixtures.
East Bengal fans will be eagerly awaiting Celis’ debut, hoping the Venezuelan forward can deliver the goals and creativity needed to propel the club up the standings.
