East Bengal midfielder Saul Crespo has ended his association with the club ahead of the 2026-27 Indian Super League season, bringing the curtain down on a successful spell with the Red-and-Gold Brigade.
The club announced the Spaniard’s departure on Monday after three seasons in which he became a key figure in midfield and helped East Bengal return to the top of Indian football.
Crespo joined East Bengal in 2023 and went on to make 65 appearances, scoring 16 goals and providing five assists. His time at the club coincided with one of East Bengal’s most successful periods in recent decades.
He was part of the squad that won the Super Cup in 2024 before playing an important role in East Bengal’s Indian Super League triumph in the 2025-26 campaign. The title ended the club’s 22-year wait to lift India’s top-flight crown.
East Bengal paid tribute to the midfielder while confirming his exit.
“From driving our midfield to lifting two glorious trophies, your name is forever written into the club’s folklore. Thank you for the blood, sweat, and leadership, Saul! We wish you the very best in your future endeavours,” the club said in its social media post.
Crespo has now completed four seasons in Indian football. Before moving to East Bengal, he represented Odisha FC, where he also enjoyed success in the Super Cup.
During his spell with Odisha, the midfielder made 26 appearances, scoring twice and registering three assists. He helped the Juggernauts win the Super Cup before switching to East Bengal.
His departure comes during a period of significant change at the Kolkata club following its decision to part ways with coach Oscar Bruzon.
Former Indian Super League-winning manager Antonio Habas, who previously managed Mohun Bagan Super Giant, has since taken charge of East Bengal. Under Habas, the Red-and-Gold Brigade has already added the Durand Cup to its honours and progressed to the group stage of the AFC Champions League Two.
Crespo’s exit means East Bengal will now move forward without one of the central figures from the side that delivered two major trophies, including the long-awaited ISL championship.
