Kolkata: At just 22, Dippendu Biswas is living the dream of every young footballer in Kolkata—donning the iconic green and maroon jersey of Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG), the club he once cheered for from the stands. But for Biswas, this journey from fan to first-team regular is more than just a fairytale—it’s a story of grit, growth, and immense pride.
“This is our mother club, not just a club,” says Biswas, reflecting on the emotional connect that binds generations of players and fans to MBSG. “You’ll hear fans say it, and now I feel it too.”
From the Stands to the Shield
The path wasn’t easy. Biswas first made his presence felt in the Calcutta Football League (CFL), before being called up to the MBSG reserves squad. It was there that his true transformation began—polishing his skills and mental toughness to meet the demands of top-tier football.
He made his ISL debut in the 2023–24 season, appearing in five matches and contributing to MBSG’s historic first-ever ISL Shield win. The following season, he became a reliable name in the starting lineup, clocking 14 appearances, keeping five clean sheets, and chipping in with a goal and two assists—all while seamlessly switching between right-back and center-back.
“Being a champion with MBSG felt incredible,” he shared in a recent interview with MBSG TV. “The fan support is insane. I truly appreciate being a part of this club.”
A Moment to Remember
For Biswas, the defining moment came in the 2024–25 ISL final—a redemption arc after the team’s heartbreak in the previous year’s final against Mumbai City FC. This time, he lifted the ISL Cup with his parents by his side, celebrating on the pitch as a family.
“It was very emotional,” he said. “Last time, we lost the final when they had come to watch. This year, we made it count. Having them there was special.”
Fuelled by Hard Work, Guided by Mentors
Biswas credits his journey to relentless dedication and the guidance of his coaches. “When I joined the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) team, my coaches told me that good performances here could lead to a senior team call-up. That motivated me every single day.”
He’s also earned a spot in the Indian U-23 squad, a milestone that reflects his growing stature and versatility.
A Fan at Heart
Despite his rise, Biswas still recalls coming to the stadium as a teenager, cheering with his friends and soaking in the electrifying atmosphere. “I used to scream from the stands. Now, I play in front of those same fans. It feels surreal,” he smiled.
What’s Next?
With a solid start to his professional career, Biswas remains grounded. “You can’t get comfortable. There’s always more to achieve. You must honour the jersey you wear—it’s about respect, responsibility, and giving everything for the team.”
And for Dippendu Biswas, playing for MBSG isn’t just about football. It’s about legacy. It’s about coming home.
