Synopsis
In a significant blow to East Bengal FC, defender Hijazi Maher is sidelined for the entire ISL 2024-25 season due to a knee injury. This setback comes at a critical time for the club as they struggle in the league standings and prepare for upcoming matches.Key Takeaways
- Hijazi Maher ruled out for the season
- Injury sustained during training
- East Bengal struggles in league standings
- Maher contributed two goals this season
- Next match against Chennaiyin FC
Kolkata, Feb 5 (NationPress) East Bengal FC has encountered a significant setback ahead of the vital concluding phase of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season, as defender Hijazi Maher has been ruled out for the rest of the campaign due to a knee injury.
The club confirmed Maher’s absence, which is a blow to their already challenging season. "After reviewing Hijazi’s medical reports, we can confirm that the defender will miss the rest of the season due to a knee injury," East Bengal posted on X.
The 27-year-old center-back suffered the injury during a training session late last year, just before East Bengal’s goalless draw against Mumbai City FC. Despite initial hopes for recovery, medical evaluations have now confirmed that Maher will not return before the season concludes.
His absence leaves East Bengal’s defense exposed as they continue their arduous journey to ascend the league table.
Maher has been one of East Bengal’s most dependable players this season, appearing in 13 matches and contributing two crucial goals, both of which aided the team in securing victories against Punjab FC and Kerala Blasters FC.
With East Bengal currently sitting 10th in the standings with only five wins in 18 matches, the loss of a key defender at this crucial moment is a substantial setback.
East Bengal will next take on Chennaiyin FC at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Saturday.
