BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has confirmed that the Kolkata outfit, who are struggling financially and on the pitch, are in talks with the Red Devils over an ownership deal.
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In a move that could dramatically change the fortunes of struggling East Bengal, English Premier League giants Manchester United may end up taking the ownership of one of the oldest football clubs in the country. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, who is facilitating the deal, said that the negotiations are on with the Red Devils and a few others and a clear picture will emerge in about two weeks. Over the last few years, EB have been struggling with ownership issues during a disastrous period in the Indian Super League (ISL). After the club failed to get an investor in place, West Bengal (WB) Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee helped them rope in Shree Cements Ltd which allowed them to join the ISL before the 2020-21 season.
United owners linked with East Bengal takeover #MUFChttps://t.co/ZCggc82xAM
— Man United News (@ManUtdMEN) May 24, 2022
The cement Conglomerate bought 76% of the club’s shares but after a couple of years, their association came to an end and last month with the company handing over the sporting rights of the Kolkata outfit. EB were in talks with Bangladesh-based conglomerate Bashundhara Group but it didn’t lead to any deal. Breaking the silence on the issue for the first time, Ganguly on Tuesday, said, “Yes we have spoken to them and others also.
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“It will take 10-12 more days to know who will be the entity.” Asked whether the European football giants are coming as an investor, the Indian cricket icon said: “No-no (they are coming) as an owner.” Ganguly however refused to delve further into it. “It takes some time. First, let it reach a stage then we will make a comment. I will speak only after there’s a concrete development,” Former Indian cricket team captain said on the eve of the IPL 2022 Qualifier 1 between Gujarat Titans and Rajasthan Royals.
East Bengal’s off-field issues have certainly affected their performances on the field. The century-old club struggled with their player recruitments as they couldn’t bring in many quality Indian players. Many of the signings they made last term and before that, proved not good enough for ISL. Former Indian internationals Balwant Singh, Jeje Lelpekhlua, CK Vineeth looked off-colors and past their prime. The Red and Gold Brigade struggled in both of their ISL campaigns, finishing at the 9th spot in the 11-team league in 2020-21 season before ending up at the bottom of the table the following campaign. Meanwhile last term, EB registered only 1 win in 20 appearances.
