The 36-year-old Brazilian centre forward, Cleiton Silva, joined East Bengal FC last season on a free transfer. The Brazilian magician has started his stint in India with Bengaluru FC. East Bengal captain Cleiton Silva was the most highlighted part of their Hero ISL 2022–23 journey.
Career Highlights: Cleiton Silva:
In 2008, Cleiton Silva started his career with Brazilian side Madureira EC. Later, he went to the Thai professional league and played for Osotspa and BEC Tero Sasana. He played a total of 57 games for the two clubs and scored 31 goals.
Before moving to Thai League side Muangthong United in 2014, Cleiton Silva also played for Delfines and Queretaro FC. Cleiton spent three tremendous seasons with the club and scored 59 goals in 85 appearances. In 2016, Silva became the first foreigner to score 100 league goals in Thailand.
Later in 2017, Cleiton joined China League One side Shanghai Shenxin FC for a record transfer fee. He scored 18 goals in 30 appearances for the Chinese club. Before coming to India, Cleiton played for other clubs like Chiangrai United and Suphanburi FC.
Performance with East Bengal:
Before joining the century-old East Bengal club, Cleiton played for ISL side Bengaluru FC and scored 16 goals in 37 appearances for them. In 2022, Cleiton joined East Bengal on a one-year deal. He has been the club captain and was the most crucial part of East Bengal’s attacking line.
The Brazilian superstar has played 24 games for the club and scored 14 goals. Silva was also the joint-highest goal scorer of the 2022–23 ISL season. Recently, at East Bengal FC’s 104th Foundation Day celebration, Cleiton Silva was awarded the Footballer of the Year award for his excellent performance with the club.
For his goal-scoring ability, excellence in free kick taking, smart penalty kicks, versatility, leadership qualities, and team-man spirit, Cleiton Silva soon becomes one of the team’s most beloved players. The Brazilian magician has extended his stay with a club for another season.
The Cleiton-Mahesh combination:
Last year, most of East Bengal FC’s goals came from the Cleiton-Mahesh combination. With the season moving forward, the chemistry between Mahesh and Cleiton continued to grow. Their combination helped East Bengal to score more than 25 goals last season.
The combination between the Indian winger and the Brazilian forward has been one of the most lethal attacking pairs in the last ISL season. Their link-up, understanding, quick one-twos, and smart vision make their partnership more fruitful throughout the season. This season, the Red and Gold supporters are willing that the Cleiton-Mahesh combination will gain more strength and they are ready to enjoy their partnership again.
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