Mohun Bagan SG announce departures of Joni Kauko, Brendan Hamill, and Hector Yuste
Mohun Bagan Super Giant have announced the departure of three key foreign players - Joni Kauko, Hector Yuste, and Brendan Hamill - as they prepare to rebuild their overseas core for the 2024-25 season.
Joni Kauko, who joined the Mariners ahead of the 2021-22 season, was a dependable presence in midfield. Despite suffering a couple of serious injuries during his time with club, he made 50 appearances, scoring 10 goals and providing 11 assists, across competions. During his three-year tenure, he helped the team win the ISL Shield and the ISL Cup.
Brendan Hamill, meanwhile, joined Mohun Bagan in the summer before the 2022-23 season and quickly became a key part of the defense. His partnership with Pritam Kotal was instrumental in the Mariners’ ISL Cup victory last season, as well as their Durand Cup and ISL Shield successes this year. Over two seasons, he made 48 appearances, scoring once.
Hector Yuste was the most recent of the three, joining from Cypriot club Omonia Nicosia FC at the start of the 2023-24 season. The Spaniard was a consistent figure in the Mariners’ defense under both Juan Ferrando and Antonio Habas, helping the team achieve a league and cup double.
In his only season with the club, Yuste made 36 appearances and scored twice, including a crucial goal against rivals East Bengal FC.
Mohun Bagan SG have key positions to fill ahead of the 2024-25 season
Mohun Bagan SG have made a huge signing ahead of the 2024-25 season by acquiring Apuia Ralte from Mumbai City FC after triggering his release clause. Apuia will also be the first ISL player to be registered outside the salary cap after the recent regulatory changes.
Bagan’s Indian core is certainly solid, featuring national team regulars such as Sahal Abdul Samad, Anwar Ali, Liston Colaco, Manvir Singh, Anirudh Thapa, and Subhasish Bose. With Apuia’s addition, the team will strengthen further as they strive to retain the Shield in the upcoming season.
In terms of foreign players, Dimitri Petratos and Jason Cummings are set to stay for another season, while Armando Sadiku’s future remains uncertain. The club are likely to sign high-profile defenders and a midfielder to replace the departing Kauko, Hamill, and Yuste.
Squad depth will be crucial for Bagan to compete against top teams, as they are set to play in four competitions. Last season highlighted the impact of injuries, particularly on the continental stage, resulting in a disappointing group stage exit. This time, Bagan will look to advance further, while remaining the top contenders for the ISL Shield.