East Bengal sign forward Semboi Haokip

The player is the first Indian to score hat-tricks in I-League, ISL and AFC Cup.

East Bengal have announced the signature of Semboi Haokip. The forward was a part of the club in the previous season. But after the season concluded, East Bengal parted ways with their former investor. As a result, Haokip too, had to find another club for himself. A few days back, there were rumours about the player joining NorthEast United. But ultimately, the forward joined East Bengal.

East Bengal are struggling in the attacking third this season. Though it is too early to question the capability of Eliandro, Sumit Passi hasn't been up to the mark. Cleiton Silva showed some glimpses of his trickery in the Kolkata derby. But the lack of a proper centre-forward upfront was clearly witnessed. Thus, the addition of Semboi Haokip will only add more fuel to the existing line-up!

About the player

The previous season saw Semboi Haokip join East Bengal for the second time after 2016. Back in 2016, the forward was also a part of the Red & Golds. In Indian Super League 2021/22, Haokip netted only two goals for the Kolkata giants in 12 appearances. However, the forward can not be really blamed for such statistics. East Bengal's midfield lacked creativity last season. Even the strikers they signed turned out to be disappointments.

Semboi Haokip hails from the Pune FC academy. He has played for clubs like Pune FC, FC Goa, Salgaocar FC, Kerala Blasters, Bengaluru FC and East Bengal in the process. Notably, Haokip was the first Indian player to score a hat-trick in all three competitions - I-League, ISL and AFC Cup. In his career, the forward has netted 30 goals in 122 appearances.

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On East Bengal's preparation for ISL 2022/23

East Bengal are going through a tough situation in the Durand Cup at present. The Red & Golds are yet to win their first game of the season. In the previous two matches, Stephen Constantine's army secured two clean sheets along with two draws. They have failed to net the ball this season (as of now). East Bengal's last victory came way back on 19th January, 2022, when the club defeated FC Goa 2-1 in the ISL.