look news india
Kolkata, June 25 (HS). Jordanian defender Hijazi Maher has signed a two-year contract extension with East Bengal Friends Club. The Indian Super League club announced this on Tuesday. 26-year-old Maher was signed by the club in 2023 and since then he has been playing an important role in the team's defensive setup. Earlier this year, the club named him the best defender after winning the Indian Super Cup. He also scored two goals in the tournament.
Since joining the Kolkata-based side, Maher has featured in 22 matches, recording the second-most clearances (99), second-most headed clearances (58) and second-most blocks (22). His effort of registering 14 clearances during an ISL match against Mumbai City FC last season caught everyone's attention.
“East Bengal holds a special place in my heart. I have spent many special moments with this great club and I can feel how much the fans love me,” the Jordanian said in a club statement.
He further added that they give me a lot of energy for every game and I always try to make them happy in return. The Kalinga Super Cup was my first trophy outside Jordan. We want to touch even greater heights next season. I would like to thank coach Carles and the Emami East Bengal management for believing in my abilities. I am eagerly waiting to return to Kolkata.
Commenting on retaining Maher's services, head coach Carles Cuadrat said: Hijazi has become a vital player in our defensive system, achieving incredible numbers in clearances, aerial duels and interceptions.
