Indian Football & ISL Transfer News
Rahul Bheke joins Mohun Bagan on a one-year deal from Bengaluru FC
The Mariners strengthen their defence by signing experienced Rahul Bheke
Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s defence for the new season has become even stronger. One of the best defenders of the Indian national team, Rahul Shankar Bheke, has joined the green-and-maroons on a one-year contract.
A seasoned campaigner with prior experience of playing in Kolkata, Rahul is mainly a centre-back but is equally capable of operating as a right-back when required. Having represented the country in more than 50 international matches, he has also had the honour of captaining the national side.
Over the past few seasons, Rahul has consistently delivered impressive performances in the Indian Super League. He is also known for contributing crucial goals, particularly from set-pieces. With his wealth of experience, he proves to be a valuable addition to any squad.
Having previously featured in the Kolkata Derby, Rahul understands the passion of the green-and-maroon supporters, as well as the intensity of the atmosphere and the deep-rooted heritage and tradition associated with the club.
Rahul Bheke brings experience to the Mohun Bagan Super Giant squad
Bheke began his professional career with Air India before going on to play for Mumbai FC, East Bengal FC with loan spells in Kerala Blasters FC and FC Pune City. However, it was after joining Bengaluru FC in 2017 that he truly established himself as one of India’s top defenders. He played a key role in the club’s success and etched his name into its history by scoring the dramatic 117th-minute winner against FC Goa in the 2018-19 ISL final, helping Bengaluru FC lift their maiden ISL title while also winning the Man of the Match award.
In 2021, Bheke signed for Mumbai City FC and enjoyed one of the most successful spells of his career. He was an integral part of the side that won the 2022-23 ISL League Winners’ Shield and the 2023-24 ISL Cup. He also made history on the continental stage by becoming the first Indian player to score in the AFC Champions League, netting the winning goal in Mumbai City FC’s memorable 2-1 victory over Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya which was also the first AFC Champions League win for an Indian club.
Bheke returned to Bengaluru FC in July 2024 and was named captain. In the 2025-26 ISL season, he made 11 appearances and picked up two yellow cards, providing leadership and stability at the back as Bengaluru FC finished fourth in the league standings with 23 points from 13 matches to qualify for the playoffs.
Since making his senior India debut in 2019, Bheke has earned 50 international caps and scored three goals. With several major trophies, historic achievements and years of consistent performances behind him, the 35-year-old remains one of the most experienced and dependable defenders in Indian football.
Also Read: Exclusive: ISL side NorthEast United win race to sign Pramveer Singh
Rahul Bheke is excited to play for the best club in India
“It is every Indian footballer’s dream to play for Mohun Bagan. I feel extremely proud and excited to have been given the chance to represent the best club in the country. Many of my teammates from the Indian national team are already part of this squad, so settling in will not be a challenge. I am ready to help the team with my experience and skills. If the coach gives me an opportunity, I will give my absolute best.”
“Kolkata is a familiar city for me in terms of football. I have previously played for East Bengal, and people will remember that I scored and secured a win in the Derby against Mohun Bagan. Now, I have the opportunity to turn things around. I am determined to win and score in the Derby against East Bengal this time. When I signed my contract to return to Kolkata, I did so with this promise in my heart. Let’s see if I can make that dream come true.”
“My ambition is to win the Derby for Mohun Bagan”: Rahul Bheke
“I have consistently featured in several competitions, including the Indian Super League, representing clubs such as Kerala, Mumbai and Bengaluru. Having faced Mohun Bagan as an opponent, I am well aware of how strong the team is when it takes the field. This season also, Mohun Bagan Super Giant is set to be the top side in the country.”
“I have gained extensive experience through numerous matches for both the national team and various clubs, and I have won trophies along the way. Now, my ambition is to win the Derby in the green-and-maroon jersey and experience the joy of becoming a champion. The vision of the Mohun Bagan management is not limited to just the ISL—they build squads with the intention of winning every possible trophy, which perfectly matches my own mindset.”
Has Rahul Bheke signed for Mohun Bagan Super Giant?
Yes, Rahul Bheke has joined Mohun Bagan Super Giant on a one-year contract ahead of the new season.
How many international matches has Rahul Bheke played for India?
Rahul Bheke has represented the Indian national team in more than 50 international matches and has also captained the side.
Which clubs has Rahul Bheke played for in his career?
Bheke has played for Air India, Mumbai FC, East Bengal, Kerala Blasters, Pune City, Bengaluru FC, and Mumbai City 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.