Mohun Bagan bolster defence by signing Spanish defender Alberto Rodriguez

Mohun Bagan also signed defender Tom Aldred a few days ago.

Mohun Bagan have confirmed the signing of Spanish centre-back Alberto Rodriguez ahead of the start of the 2024-25 season. The 31-year-old defender has signed a two-year contract with the Mariners which will expire in 2026.

Alberto Rodriguez is going to venture on a new journey after having spent the majority of his career playing in Spain. The 6’3 centre-back is likely to be the replacement for the recently departed Hector Yuste and is going to add a lot of physicality as well as assurance to the Mariner’s backline.

Speaking on his decision to join Mohun Bagan, Alberto Rodriguez remarked: “I was keeping an eye on the possibility of playing in the Indian Super League for quite a few years now. I also witnessed Mohun Bagan become the ISL Shield champions last season. But the main reason behind me joining them is because of their massive fan base.

“I feel more confident at playing to my best ability when able to play in front of packed crowds. Mohun Bagan have no alternative in terms of the sheer amount of support in Indian football. The Mariners fan base is the best. My objectives align with the club’s desire to retain the ISL championship next season and to ensure to win every tournament we play in.”

Mohun Bagan’s head coach Jose Molina played a key role in bringing in the Spanish defender to bolster his squad for the upcoming campaign. The gaffer is delighted at signing Rodriguez and remarked: “Alberto is the kind of a centre-back who can hold together a defensive line with his physical strength and aggression. One of his biggest strengths is that he can also help create chances and move the ball forward nicely.

“Both his feet are capable of moving the ball. Last season, he was able to play a key role in helping his club clinch the Indonesian top division. I’m delighted that he responded to the interest from Mohun Bagan from the first day he was approached and that he’s decided to join our club.”

Rodriguez has been playing competitive football since 2011 and comes in with a ton of experience. He has made over 100 appearances in his career, which includes 51 appearances in La Liga 2 and also five appearances in the Copa Del Rey. After playing for lower-league Spanish clubs like Arucas, Tamaraceite and Lugo, he joined Indonesian side Persib Bandung last season.

The 31-year-old helped Persib Bandung clinch the Indonesian Super League. Persib finished second in the league stages, conceding just 38 goals in 34 games. They would then win the championship series round, defeating teams like Bali United and Madura United en route to the title.

Rodriguez is likely to act as a replacement for Hector Yuste, who was recently released by the Mariners. With Mohun Bagan looking to strongly compete in the 2024-25 AFC Champions League 2, they’ll need foreign players like Alberto to excel and prove their quality in the biggest games.

Time to send that ‘Hi’ to your crush! 🫡Welcome Alberto Rodríguez 💚♥️#MBSG #JoyMohunBagan #আমরাসবুজমেরুন #WelcomeAlberto pic.twitter.com/xlQTTQJPYu

— Mohun Bagan Super Giant (@mohunbagansg) July 5, 2024

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