Alan Costa leaves Bengaluru FC before Super Cup

The defender will not be available for selection in the upcoming Super Cup as he departs.

Bengaluru FC’s centre-back Alan Costa is leaving the club to stay with his family back in Brazil. The Indian Super League (ISL) outfit will have to contend without the services of the defender who was a central figure in the club’s journey to the ISL final. In the aftermath of his departure, the club also released a congratulatory statement on social media, thanking him for his services to the club during his stay.

Alan Costa was crucial for Simon Grayson’s side during the 2022-23 season. He was one of the consistent performers in the ISL, helping the club defy massive odds and make it into the ISL playoffs. Furthermore, he was at the centre of helping the Blues win the 2022 Durand Cup as well. His defensive solidity combined with the aerial threat in the attacking third made him a dangerous operator for any opposition.

The loan deal was set to run out on 31 May 2023, but the club agreed to end his spell prematurely to allow him time with family back home in Brazil.

A brief but brilliant spell in Indian football

Alan Costa arrived on the Indian shores after Bengaluru FC signed him on a two-year loan deal from Brazilian club Avaí FC on 6 July 2021. He went on to play 36 matches for the Blues in the Indian Super League. In 2662 minutes of game-time, the defender contributed with four goals and two assists.

In terms of defending, Alan Costa was superb for BFC, often keeping a close watch on attackers and not giving them any space to operate. The tall centre-back made 61 interceptions and 104 clearances during his time with the Blues.

Fans of the club developed a deep connection with Alan Costa and will undoubtedly miss his presence on the pitch. He would have been a crucial figure for the club in the upcoming Super Cup, where Bengaluru FC have to face the likes of Kerala Blasters and RoundGlass Punjab in Group A.