Calcutta: Syed Rahim Nabi has won most of the important trophies in Indian football with the national team as well as with East Bengal. But the premier trophy — the I-League title — is still missing from his closet. In search of that elusive title, the defender broke from East Bengal’s ranks to join archrivals Mohun Bagan. He was unveiled at the Bagan tent on Thursday.
Speaking at a media-conference on Thursday, Nabi said he was determined to win laurels for his new club. “I have been with East Bengal since 2004. I have drawn appreciation from every one and won many trophies for the club. But the I-League is one trophy which has eluded me. I want to re-invent myself in this revered club. I want to win the I-League and many other trophies for Mohun Bagan,” said Nabi. He said he took the decision to play for Bagan towards the end of the season.
“East Bengal took the initiative (to sign him) only last night (Wednesday night). I had already given my word to Bagan officials and my contract with East Bengal had also expired,” said Nabi.
“At the start of my career, it was Bagan who first offered me to play for them. Due to some reasons, we could not strike a deal. But, now, I am happy to don the green and maroon jersey.”
The club’s football secretary Anjan Mitra, amid thunderous applause from the club’s supporters, presented Nabi with the club’s jersey. The player is signed for a two-year deal for an approximate sum of Rs 45-50 lakh a season.
Nabi said that he wanted to enjoy playing alongside Bagan star Jose Ramirez Barreto. “I always wanted to play with Barreto, to strike a partnership with him and score goals. I want to relish the chance to play with (Okolie) Odafe as well,” asserted Nabi.
Mitra also revealed that the club has also signed NP Pradeep from Viva Kerala, although the player was not present at the press conference.
