East Bengal has appointed veteran Spanish coach Antonio Lopez Habas as its new head coach ahead of the 2026-27 season, marking the return of one of Indian football’s most successful managers to Kolkata.
The appointment comes at a significant moment for the reigning Indian Super League League Shield champions as they prepare to defend their first-ever league title while navigating uncertainty surrounding the club’s ownership. The club announced Habas’ arrival through its management, indicating that its partnership with the Emami Group, under whose stewardship East Bengal ended a 22-year wait for a national league crown last season, has expired and is yet to be renewed.
Habas replaces Oscar Bruzon, who guided the Red-and-Gold brigade to its historic ISL League Shield triumph. Club sources said the 69-year-old Spaniard is expected to take charge before East Bengal’s Durand Cup opener against arch-rival Mohun Bagan in Kolkata on July 25.
One of the most decorated coaches in Indian football, Habas boasts an impressive record that includes two ISL Cups, one ISL League Shield and an I-League title, making him the only coach to have won both of India’s premier domestic league competitions.
His most recent assignment was with Inter Kashi, where he spent nearly two seasons after taking over in 2024. He led the Varanasi-based club to the I-League title before departing amid reports of financial difficulties that affected his relationship with the management.
Welcoming the Spaniard, East Bengal president M. L. Lohia expressed confidence in the appointment.
“We are delighted to welcome Antonio Lopez Habas to the East Bengal family. Coach Habas is one of the most accomplished and respected football coaches to have worked in Indian football,” Lohia said.
“His proven leadership, tactical acumen, professionalism and winning mentality make him an ideal choice to lead our team into a new era.”
Accepting the role, Habas said he was eager to begin a new chapter with the club.
“It is my true honour to join East Bengal. I embrace this challenge with excitement, humility and a great sense of responsibility,” he said.
“From today, all our efforts will be dedicated to representing this badge with pride and fighting together to achieve the club’s ambitions. I am looking forward to seeing all the fans soon in Kolkata.”
East Bengal also confirmed the appointment of fellow Spaniard Carlos Agustin Fonseca Teijeiro as assistant coach, strengthening the club’s technical staff ahead of the new campaign.
Renowned for his disciplined defensive structure and effective counter-attacking approach, Habas has remained one of the defining figures of the ISL since its inaugural season in 2014. His return signals East Bengal’s intent to build on last season’s breakthrough success and challenge for more silverware.
