Martand Raina has been one of the best defenders in the I-League this season.
East Bengal have pulled off a key signing ahead of the 2025-26 season by bringing in Rajasthan United’s in-form centre-back Martand Raina. The 24-year-old defender joins the Red and Gold Brigade after a standout campaign in the I-League and is expected to play quite a role in the club’s defensive rebuild.
The Kolkata side, who endured another underwhelming season in the Indian Super League (ISL), have been actively looking to strengthen key positions. With a ninth-place finish in the league and a Round of 16 exit in the Kalinga Super Cup, it became clear that East Bengal needed fresh blood in defence to address their lack of stability at the back.
According to Khel Now’s sources, East Bengal paid a transfer fee of around ₹25 lakhs approximately with additional performance-based add-ons to secure Martand Raina’s signature for three years. East Bengal acted swiftly to land Raina after Mumbai City FC, who were in advanced talks for weeks, failed to finalise the deal. Spotting the window of opportunity, the Torchbearers swooped in and sealed the transfer, bolstering a backline that struggled with fitness and consistency last season.
A breakout season for Martand Raina
Martand Raina enjoyed a stellar 2024-25 I-League season with Rajasthan United, emerging as one of the most consistent defenders in the competition. Not only did he anchor the backline with authority, but he also chipped in with four goals in 21 appearances—more than any other centre-back in the league.
Known for his ability to carry the ball into midfield and pose a threat during set-pieces, Martand Raina started 20 matches and rarely put a foot wrong. His knack for timing interceptions and his effectiveness in aerial duels showed his capability as an able player at the back.
What does Raina brings to East Bengal’s defence?
East Bengal’s biggest issue last season was their unsettled centre-back pairing. Injuries to Hector Yuste and Hijazi Maher disrupted the team’s rhythm, while Anwar Ali struggled to settle in. With Raina’s arrival, the club hopes to form a stable and aggressive centre-back duo.
His proactive style and willingness to step out and engage opponents will allow Anwar Ali to play a more composed, sweeping role. Raina’s presence is expected to bring much-needed stability, potentially transforming East Bengal’s fragile backline into a more resilient unit capable of keeping clean sheets and grinding out tight results.
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