5 fan favourite foreigners to have played for Mohun Bagan

Chima Okorie became the first foreigner to be signed by Mohun Bagan

When it comes to the rich tapestry of Indian football history, few names shine as brightly as Mohun Bagan. Established in 1889, the club has stood as a bastion of football excellence in India, capturing the hearts of fans and cultivating an enduring legacy. Throughout its storied journey, Mohun Bagan has had the privilege of hosting several foreign football luminaries who have etched their names in the archives of the club's history. 

In this article, we pay homage to the top five fan fovorite’s foreigners who left an indelible mark on the Mohun Bagan legacy.

5) Katsumi Yusa

Katsumi Yusa from Japan left an indelible impact on Mohun Bagan during his time at the club. Joining in 2013, Yusa's versatility and tireless work rate made him an integral part of the team's midfield. His ability to both create opportunities and contribute defensively made him a coach's dream. Yusa's dedication to the jersey and his passionate displays endeared him to the fans, showcasing the global nature of Mohun Bagan's following.

4) Odafa Onyeka Okolie

Odafa Okolie, popularly known as "Odafa," is another Nigerian talent who captured the hearts of Mohun Bagan faithful. Arriving in 2006, Odafa possessed an unique capability to find the back of the net with astonishing regularity. His two-year stint with the club saw him become the top scorer in multiple editions of the I-League, underlining his prowess as one of the most lethal strikers to have graced Indian football.

3) Chima Okorie

Chima Okorie, a Nigerian striker, is fondly remembered by Mohun Bagan fans for his prolific goal-scoring ability. He joined the club in the mid-1990s and quickly became a crowd favorite with his electrifying pace and clinical finishing. Okorie's contribution to the team's success, including several Calcutta Football League titles, earned him iconic status in the hearts of supporters. His partnership with Indian football legend Bhaichung Bhutia up front during his brief time donning the iconic Green and Maroon remains etched in the folklore of the club's history.

2) Sony Norde

Hailing from Haiti, Sony Norde brought a touch of Caribbean flair to Mohun Bagan's midfield. Joining the club in 2014, Norde's dribbling skills, pace, and ability to create opportunities made him an instant fan favorite. He played a pivotal role in Mohun Bagan's 2014-2015 I-League triumph, ending a 13-year title drought for the club. Norde's dynamic performances and emotional connection with the fans cemented his legacy as a Mohun Bagan legend. Despite leaving the club in 2019, he has been continuously showing support for his beloved Mohun Bagan and the fans in return to this day do not shy in calling out one of their own.

1) José Ramírez Barreto

Probably the greatest ever foreigner to have played for  the Brazilian magician, José Ramírez Barreto, left an indelible mark during his time at Mohun Bagan. Signing with the club in 1999, Barreto's exceptional dribbling skills, creative flair, and ability to score vital goals endeared him to the fans. His crowning achievement came in 2001 when he scored a brace against East Bengal in the historic IFA Shield final, helping Mohun Bagan end their 23-year trophy drought in the competition.