Chennaiyin snap up Atletico de Kolkata duo Fikru and Edel Bete

by Kaushal Shukla June 26, 2015

Chennaiyin have signed Atletico de Kolkata duo Fikru and Apoula Edel Bete for the second season of the Hero Indian Super League.

The duo were instrumental in Atletico de Kolkata’s run to glory in the previous campaign where Fikru scored five goals including the first ever goal in the competition’s history, while Edel Bete kept four clean sheets for the Champions and made some crucial vital saves at crucial junctures in the tournament.

Chennaiyin FC coach Marco Matterazzi hailed the duo as the best foreign players in the first campaign. “These two were the most consistent campaigners in the first season and the best foreign players according to me. We are glad to have signed them for the second season”, said the World Cup winning Chennaiyin coach.

Edel expressed his delight at signing for the Chennai outfit and looks forward to playing in Chennai. “I had a great time playing in the ISL last year and I am looking forward to play in it again this time with Chennaiyin FC. I remember Chennai having an electric atmosphere and I hope it helps us win the ISL this season”.

Fikru too echoed his team mate’s thoughts and felt it was impossible to turn down a chance to play under Marco Materazi. ” I am delighted to sign for Chennaiyin who were one of the most competitive teams in the league. There was no way I was going to turn down a chance to play under Materazzi and I am looking forward to the challenge.

Fikru’s addition would give the Chennaiyin attack a real bite with the likes of Elano in midfield to feed the Ethiopian. At the same time, Apoula Edel Bete’s presence in goal will lift the Chennaiyin’s rearguard.

Edel Bete has appeared for the likes of PSG and Hapoel Tel Aviv in the past and will bring loads of experience with him. With the duo having tasted success on Indian soil last season will know exactly what’s needed to repeat the feat with their new employer.

The decision to let the duo go could come back to haunt the Kolkatans if Chennaiyin beats them to the ISL crown this season.