ISL Transfers: Robi Hansda signs six-month deal with Mohammedan Sporting

West Bengal’s Santosh Trophy-winning star, Robi Hansda, has signed a six-month agreement with Indian Super League (ISL) side Mohammedan Sporting Club, reported Ei Samay.

Robi made history by surpassing Mohammed Habib’s record to become the highest goal scorer for West Bengal in the Santosh Trophy, netting 12 goals in a single edition of India’s prestigious national championship.

Upon his return to Kolkata from Hyderabad with the victorious West Bengal team, intense bidding ensued between East Bengal and Mohammedan Sporting to secure the services of the talented striker.

Robi, a tribal footballer from Masaru village in Purba Burdwan district, eventually chose Mohammedan Sporting on a six-month loan from Calcutta Customs Club. The decision was influenced by the greater likelihood of getting match time at Mohammedan Sporting compared to East Bengal.

Robi had drawn significant attention after an impressive campaign in the Calcutta Football League last year, where he scored nine goals for Customs. Clubs such as Bhawanipore Club and an I-League side had also shown interest in signing him. However, Mohammedan Sporting’s keen pursuit, particularly after his Santosh Trophy heroics, proved decisive.

Since Robi’s contract with Customs is set to expire on May 31, 2026, the move to Mohammedan Sporting had to be structured as a loan deal.

Commenting on the transfer, Customs' football manager, Rajiv Bagh, said, “East Bengal and Mohammedan Sporting approached us for him. Robi himself did not want to sign for East Bengal.”

“He wanted a club in the ISL where he would get more match time. So, we advised him to play for Mohammedan Sporting. Robi himself was also happy with the contract. That is why he chose Mohammedan and not East Bengal for the next six months,” Bagh added.