EB rope in Cameroonian striker but Hijazi’s season is over
Times of India | 6 February 2025
Kolkata: On a day East Bengal FC bolstered their frontline by roping in Cameroonian forward Raphael Messi Bouli, they lost Jordanian defender Hijazi Maher through a season-ending injury.
Messi Bouli — who played for Kerala Blasters in the 2019-20 season — joined the city club until the end of the current season.
It has been learnt that the 32-year-old has received his visa and he is expected to join Oscar Bruzon's side on Friday, the eve of the team's next ISL match against Chennaiyin FC. It remains to be seen whether the Cameroonian will be given a straight debut in that match.
"Raphaël joins us at a very crucial juncture of the season. He has played for Kerala Blasters in the past, so he is a familiar face in Indian football. He brings with him a winning mentality. His physical presence, scoring ability and dedication will make him a valuable asset to the team," Bruzon said in a statement on Wednesday.
Messi Mouli joined East Bengal from Chinese League One club Shijiazhuang Gongfu on a free transfer.
However, hours before making Messi Mouli's arrival official, the city club gave updates on Hijazi's injury.
"Emami East Bengal FC defender Hijazi Maher will miss the remainder of the season due to a knee injury. We wish him a speedy recovery," the club said in a statement.
Hijazi became the second East Bengal player after French playmaker Madih Talal to be ruled out of the season because of injury.
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