East Bengal has roped in international footballers from Bangladesh to strengthen the team for the ongoing Indian Women’s League (IWL). She is 22-year-old Sanjida Akhter. She will be the first foreign footballer to represent a Kolkata team. 

Sanjida who was representing Basundhara Kings and has already scored 12 goals for Bangladesh so far, was also among the top 10 footballers in the under-16 AFC Championship, and while remembering, Sanjida revealed that this was the most memorable moment for her so far. 

Sanjida who mainly plays as an attacking midfielder commented on joining her new team, “I was offered to play IWL by East Bengal officials before our FIFA friendly matches against Singapore but I refused. I knew that the Federation would not release me that time.” 

Sanjida also divulged she wants to make her debut in Indian women’s football memorable through an inspiring performance. She although admitted, “The result does not depend on one or two footballers. The team need to deliver its best.”

However, Sanjida who has already arrived in the city is expected to resume training on Wednesday. The red-and-gold brigade will be playing against Odhisha FC on 18th January at home. The team has garnered three points from four matches so far. 

After the team's couple of footballers joined the under-19 national preparatory camp, Sanjida is expected to bolster the striking force.