KOLKATA: Costa Rican defender Johny Acosta, who donned his national colours in the group stage of the ongoing FIFA World Cup, has signed for East Bengal FC for the upcoming I-League season.
Announcing the historic signing on Wednesday, East Bengal said in a statement that Acosta would join the team in August.
Even though the club kept quiet about the signing amount, it was rumoured that Acosta had been hired for ₹1.36 crore.
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On joining East Bengal, Acosta said: “East Bengal FC is one of the biggest clubs of India with a very rich heritage. I want to deliver my best for my new club and be part with Indian football. My motto is to help other Indian footballers and guide them properly. I also want to win the trophy for East Bengal.”
Acosta, who started his club career in 2004-05 making his professional debut for Santos de Guapiles, played for another Costa Rican club Alajuelense and Mexican second division side Dorados.
He also played for Herediano and Colombian side Rionegro Aguilas.
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Acosta made his National debut in a friendly against Argentina in 2011. He also represented his country in the Concaf Gold Cup, Copa America and the 2014 World Cup.
The 34-year-old has played 71 matches and scored two goals for his nation.