Mohun Bagan’s acquisition of Brazilian midfielder Miguel Figueira has emerged as one of the most talked-about moves of the 2026 summer transfer window, with the former East Bengal star expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the Mariners’ attacking ambitions next season.
Figueira’s decision to leave East Bengal after helping the club secure the 2025-26 Indian Super League title surprised many across Indian football. Having also claimed the ISL Golden Ball, the Brazilian opted against renewing his contract before making the controversial switch to East Bengal’s fiercest rivals.
While the move has divided opinions among supporters, Mohun Bagan fans will be hoping the midfielder can replicate the form that made him one of the league’s most influential players. His creativity, vision and ability to produce moments of unpredictability are expected to provide a significant boost to the Mariners’ frontline.
One player who could benefit greatly from Figueira’s arrival is Liston Colaco. The winger endured a frustrating 2025-26 campaign, managing just one goal despite attempting 39 shots during the ISL season. Many of those opportunities came from difficult positions, highlighting the lack of quality service in attacking areas.
Figueira’s ability to operate between the lines and deliver incisive passes could help Colaco find himself in more dangerous positions. The Brazilian’s knack for carrying the ball into advanced areas may also allow the winger greater freedom to attack defenders and focus on finishing opportunities closer to goal.
New signing Dejan Drazic is another player expected to thrive alongside the Brazilian playmaker. The Serbian forward arrives at Mohun Bagan after establishing himself as a proven performer in Indian football and will be tasked with strengthening the club’s attacking output.
Drazic’s intelligent movement and strong link-up play could complement Figueira’s creative qualities. The partnership has the potential to create unpredictable attacking patterns, with the midfielder capable of exploiting defensive gaps and supplying the Serbian striker with regular scoring opportunities.
Perhaps the biggest beneficiary could be Jamie Maclaren. The Australian forward scored 10 goals during Mohun Bagan’s 2025-26 ISL campaign and frequently delivered in crucial moments. However, he often lacked a natural creator operating behind him.
Figueira’s arrival could change that dynamic completely. After developing an effective partnership with Youssef Ezzejjairi at East Bengal last season, the Brazilian will now be expected to build a similar understanding with Maclaren. His ability to consistently find attackers in dangerous positions could help the Australian increase his goal tally and become an even greater threat in front of goal.
As Mohun Bagan prepare for the new campaign, much of the spotlight will fall on Figueira and whether he can transform the club’s attack into one of the league’s most feared units.
