I am very excited to play in the AFC competition, exclaims East Bengal's new midfielder Madih Talal

Madih Talal also mentioned Carles Cuadrat’s role in pursuing his move to East Bengal.

East Bengal, one of India’s most storied football clubs, have added a major asset to their squad: Madih Talal, the standout playmaker from last season has joined the club. The Kolkata giants secured Talal on a two-year deal, a move first reported exclusively by Khel Now back in March.

Madih Talal, who hails from the second division of Greek football, was initially signed by Punjab FC. His performances there quickly caught the attention of their management and he was brought in primarily as an attacking midfielder. However, under the guidance of coach Staikos Vergetis, he initially played in deeper positions as the team sought the right balance.

It didn’t take long for Talal to adapt and shine. His remarkable skills soon made him a key player, drawing the interest of at least four Indian Super League (ISL) clubs. Yet, it was East Bengal who won the race to secure his coveted signature.

In an exclusive chat with Khel Now, Madih Talal opened up about his journey, his new role at East Bengal, and his aspirations for the future. Here are some highlights from that conversation:

Reflection on first season with Punjab FC

Madih Talal started the conversation by reflecting on his successful season with the Shers personally and said, “For the first season I did not expect to do what I did this season.

“Mostly the first season is a little difficult for all the players when they go to another country because they don’t know the football atmosphere there. They need time to adapt. But, my team as well as my teammates helped me a lot and they put me in the best condition to do what I did last season.”

Turnaround time at Punjab FC

Punjab FC had only registered one win in their first phase of the ISL last season, as coach Staikos Vergetis was trying to find the right balance for his young and inexperienced side. From thereon, Punjab just missed out on the playoffs by three points.

Madih revealed the team conversation that happened after the first phase and stated, “First of all, Jordan (Wilmar Jordan Gill) also was injured in the first part. So, he came back and helped us a lot. 

“But, I think everything was on the coach because it was tough to change the system and to make sure I have all the freedom in the attacking part. He found a good formation for every player to fit. “

On Staikos Vergetis 

Staikos Vergetis spent two years in Indian football and he helped the Shers win the I-League title. Staikos also showed his coaching prowess by churning out results for his team in the ISL.

Madih fondly spoke of his former coach and remarked, “I’m very sad because the coach will not continue with Punjab. But, he was a really good coach. What I want to say personally about him, he was a good person. Like, he was always close to the players. He liked to laugh and joke and went outside with the players. I never had a coach so close to a player like that.”

Move to East Bengal 

The former Amiens midfielder shed light on how his move to East Bengal became a reality. According to him, he did wait for a call from Punjab FC’s management for a contract extension, but it never came.

“Yes, I was enjoying my time in Punjab. I wanted to stay and I was waiting for something from Punjab, but after that some teams started to show interest in me.“

“Hence, I started the conversation with them and when I spoke with the coach of East Bengal, Carles Cuadrat, we matched directly about his philosophy and also the project of the team because they started to build something very good.

“When it’s a historic club like East Bengal and a nice city like Kolkata, I never thought twice. Also, when the team is going to the AFC, it’s big. It’s like a bonus, so you cannot say no to this offer,” the Frenchman confessed.

Pressure of playing for East Bengal

The 27-year-old is excited about the prospect of playing in front of East Bengal’s loyal supporters. He understands that huge support comes with huge responsibility and is ready to shine in Red and Gold.

“First of all, when you are in a great team, you have pressure everywhere. So, the pressure is good because personally, it will push me to give my best. I like the pressure because it pushes me to be better and to give back to the fans what they will give us.”

Playing in AFC competition

When questioned about his excitement about playing in the AFC competition Madih Talal said he would let the team talk with their performances.

He quipped, “I’m very excited about the AFC. It’s a really good competition, but it’s too early to speak about that. I left this to the team to work. I’m sure the team is working on that to build the best team possible and to be competitive in all the competitions.”

Views on coach Carles Cuadrat

Carles Cuadrat was the main influence for Madih Talal to make the switch to the legendary club. His regard for the Spaniard is high.

He went on and said, “As I told you before, the discussion I had with him, was exciting and positive because he explained to me his plan, how he wants to use me, how he wants to play next season with the players he will take, so we match directly.”

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