Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) announced on Sunday, September 8, 2024, that their star goalkeeper, Vishal Kaith, has signed a contract extension that will keep him with the club until 2029. The extension solidifies the club’s intent to build around Kaith, who has become a cornerstone of their defense since joining from Chennaiyin FC in 2022.
Kaith, 28, has been instrumental in Mohun Bagan’s recent success, earning the prestigious Golden Glove award for the best goalkeeper in the ISL last season. His remarkable performances between the posts were pivotal in helping the team clinch the League Winners Shield, which secured them a spot in the AFC Champions League Two, formerly known as the AFC Cup.
A native of Rohru in Himachal Pradesh, Kaith expressed his deep commitment to the Mariners. “I want to play for Mohun Bagan for the rest of my life,” he declared in an official statement. Kaith emphasized that the overwhelming love and support he has received from the club’s passionate fanbase was a key factor in his decision to commit to a long-term contract.
“The love and affection from the fans made it impossible for me to consider leaving the club, even though I received attractive offers from other teams,” he said.
Kaith’s performances have not only earned him the admiration of the fans but have also cemented his status as one of the best goalkeepers in Indian football. He played a crucial role in Mohun Bagan’s journey to the final of the recently-concluded Durand Cup, where his goalkeeping heroics once again shone through.
Kaith’s ability to perform under pressure was on full display during penalty shootouts in both the quarterfinal and semifinal stages, where his crucial double saves ensured the team’s progression to the final.
The goalkeeper’s impact stretches beyond his shot-stopping ability, as he has become a key figure in the team’s defensive organization and leadership on the field. As Mohun Bagan prepares for the new ISL season and their upcoming AFC Champions League Two campaign, Kaith’s leadership at the back will be vital.
The Mariners face a challenging AFC Champions League Two draw, where they are grouped with formidable teams, including Ravshan Kulob of Tajikistan, Qatar’s Al-Wakrah SC, and Iran’s Tractor FC. Mohun Bagan will kick off their continental campaign at home against Ravshan on September 18, followed by a crucial away fixture against Tractor FC on October 2.
Kaith is aware of the challenges ahead and is determined to rise to the occasion. “The big challenge is to maintain a clean sheet in the AFC Cup, but our team is stronger than last season,” Kaith said, expressing his confidence in the squad’s ability to compete on multiple fronts. “We have the capability to win the ISL and the Super Cup,” he added, signaling his ambitions for more silverware this season.
Mohun Bagan’s management and fans alike will be delighted to have secured Kaith’s services for the long term, as the goalkeeper has consistently proven his value with standout performances that have made him one of the best in the league. With his contract extension, Kaith now has the opportunity to become a true club legend and potentially lead the team to even greater heights in the years to come.
