How can Effiong Nsungusi's move help East Bengal FC in 2026-27 season?
Effiong scored 7 goals for Punjab FC last season
East Bengal FC have once again turned their attention to squad building ahead of the new season, as they are gearing up for the upcoming Durand Cup. But not only the Durand Cup, but the Indian Super League will be the main priority for the Red and Gold Brigade as they are the defending champions and will aim to retain it.
East Bengal FC recently roped in Nigerian striker Effiong Nsungusi from Punjab FC ahead of the new season. With his signing, the ISL 2025-26 champions strengthened their attack after the departure of ISL 2025-26 Golden boot winner Youssef Ezzejjari.
The Nigerian forward joins the Red and Gold brigade after an impressive campaign with the shers in the Indian Super League 2025-26 season.
In this article we take a look at how his signing could help East Bengal in the upcoming season.
An ISL proven goal scorer will lead East Bengal’s attacking line
A proven goal scorer for East Bengal FC, a profile like this is one of the biggest concerns in recent seasons for East Bengal. Many forwards have played for the club, but a very few have shined, Youssef Ezzejjari is one such example who did brilliant for them.
After the departure of Youssef Ezzejjari, this team needed another striker with proven League experience, and Effiong fits the role perfectly. He has already shown that he can score against top teams at crucial moments and also has the experience to play in the ISL.
Despite being a brilliant season for Youssef Ezzejjari with the team, he left East Bengal after winning the ISL, and the former Punjab FC forward is the perfect replacement for the Torchbearers ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Effiong is a good fit under Antonio Habas’s system
Effiong Nsungusi could be a good fit for the Antonio Lopez Habas system because he can finish clear-cut chances, move in space, and play across the frontline.
Antonio Habas, who primarily depends on a midfield zonal playing system, can be very effective with a physical striker who can bring flair and exploit spaces behind the opposition defence, especially during counterattacks. Also, he has a very good work rate and could help his teammates to press defenders from the front.
His physical presence, finishing ability and movement inside the penalty area made him a key player for Punjab, and now, under Habas, East Bengal FC hopes that he can deliver the same impact for them.
If East Bengal FC dominate the possession from the midfield area and goes with a mid-block system with progressive wingers, then the Nigerian forward could receive more chances of goals in the upcoming season.
Effiong adds flexibility in the final third
East Bengal FC have won the ISL title last season under Oscar Bruzon, but the scenario has now changed as Habas is their new head coach and Effiong Nsungusi could be an important player for the Red and Gold Brigade in the next season.
He is very versatile as a striker, playing as a proper number 9 for Punjab FC in the 2025-26 ISL. Effiong is a player who has the ability to cut inside and shoot from distance. Not only that, but he can also drift into the wide areas and stretch out the opposition’s defensive line to open the free space for other teammates.
Replacing Youssef is never going to be an easy task for Effiong but after a great season with the Shers he will aim to do well with the Torchbearers and win titles in the upcoming season.
Who is East Bengal FC’s latest signing?
East Bengal have signed Nigerian striker Nsungusi Effiong from Punjab FC.
Who is the head coach of East Bengal FC?
Antonio Lopez Habas is the head coach of East Bengal FC.
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Rohit Mistri is a sports journalist from Kolkata with over two years of experience in the field. He has extensively covered Indian football, including major tournaments such as the Calcutta Football League and the Indian Super League. His work spans on-ground reporting, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling, along with interviews of prominent sporting personalities. Rohit brings strong communication skills and a deep passion for sports narratives to everything he writes.