ISL: Mushaga Bakenga part ways with Punjab FC

Mushaga Bakenga played aside Erling Haaland.

High-flying Indian Super League (ISL) side Punjab FC are eyeing their first playoff appearance this season. However, the former I-League champions suffered a setback on Tuesday as they lost 4-2 to East Bengal at the VYBK Stadium.

The Shers were leading 2-0 at halftime but ended up succumbing to the pressure as East Bengal scored four goals within 20 minutes in the second half. Adding to their woes, centre-back Ivan Novoselec was injured in the game while right-back Khaiminthang Lhungdim was sent off in that game.

While Panagiotis Dilmperis’ side are now preparing to face Mohun Bagan Super Giant on 26th December, they might have another problem. Punjab FC’s striker Mushaga Bakenga has mutually parted ways with the club.

Why did Punjab FC part ways with Mushaga Bakenga?

Punjab FC had signed Mushaga Bakenga in the 2024 summer transfer window. The Norwegian had represented Apollon Limassol in Cyprus last season and has also played for the likes of Club Brugge, Rosenburg, and Molde among other European clubs.

The reason for Bakenga’s departure from the Shers has not been confirmed. However, Punjab FC’s Technical Director Nikolaos Topoliatis has released an official statement on what has happened.

The official statement read, “After mutual discussions, it was decided that Bakenga would part ways with us. I truly appreciate his contributions during his time here and wish him the very best in all his future endeavors.”

Bakenga played 10 ISL games for Punjab FC this season and scored a goal against Mumbai City FC at the Mumbai Football Arena last month. The 32-year-old’s last appearance for the Shers came on Tuesday in the 4-2 loss to East Bengal in Kolkata.

Having come on as a substitute, the Norwegian played 12 minutes for the Shers against East Bengal. The striker took three shots but was not able to score in his last game for the ISL club.

What’s next for Punjab FC?

Punjab FC will have to face Mohun Bagan with just five foreigners in their squad. With Mushaga Bakenga leaving, the Shers will certainly have to dip their toes in the January transfer window to sign another foreign player.

In January, the Shers will play Kerala Blasters, NorthEast United, Mumbai City, and Jamshedpur FC in what will be a busy start to 2025. With the side vying for a playoff spot, bringing in a good replacement for Bakenga would be important for the ISL club to maintain their strong run in the competition.

Can Punjab FC retain their spot in the top six? Let us know your thoughts.

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