East Bengal FC Appoint Antonio López Habas as Head Coach for 2026-27 ISL Season
East Bengal FC have officially appointed Antonio López Habas as the club's new head coach for the 2026-27 season, bringing one of the most accomplished managers in Indian football back to the Indian Super League.
The reigning ISL champions announced the arrival of the veteran Spanish tactician on Sunday, marking the beginning of another chapter in Habas' long and successful association with Indian football. Alongside him, Carlos Agustín Fonseca Teijeiro has been appointed as the club's assistant coach, strengthening the Red & Gold Brigade's technical setup ahead of the new campaign.
The appointment reflects East Bengal's ambition to build on their recent success and establish themselves as one of the dominant forces in Indian football.
Antonio López Habas returns to the ISL with an impressive managerial résumé that few coaches in Indian football can match. Since arriving in India more than a decade ago, the Spaniard has built a reputation for creating disciplined, tactically organised teams capable of competing consistently for silverware. His achievements include multiple Indian Super League titles, domestic cup triumphs and League Shield success, making him one of the most successful foreign coaches to have worked in the country.
Before beginning his journey in India, Habas enjoyed a long coaching career in Spain, managing clubs including Atlético Madrid, Valencia, Celta de Vigo and Sporting Gijón. He also guided Bolivia to the runners-up finish at the 1997 Copa América, highlighting his experience at the international level.
His return to the dugout comes after reports suggested he had also received an offer from Mohun Bagan Super Giant for the role of Technical Director. Instead of stepping into an administrative position, Habas has chosen to continue coaching and lead East Bengal's sporting project.
The move signals both his desire to remain actively involved on the touchline and East Bengal's intent to place an experienced winner at the helm.
East Bengal have enjoyed a resurgence over the past few seasons, culminating in their Indian Super League triumph, but maintaining success often proves more difficult than achieving it. The club believes Habas possesses the experience and leadership required to sustain that momentum.
In announcing the appointment, East Bengal highlighted his tactical acumen, professionalism and proven ability to build competitive teams, describing him as one of the most respected football coaches to have worked in India.
Welcoming Habas to the club, East Bengal President Dr. Mr. M. L. Lohia said:
"We are delighted to welcome Antonio López Habas to the East Bengal family. Coach Habas is one of the most accomplished and respected football coaches to have worked in Indian football. His proven leadership, tactical acumen, professionalism, and winning mentality make him an ideal choice to lead our team into a new era. East Bengal is more than just a football club—it is an institution built on passion, pride and the unwavering support of millions of fans across the globe. We are confident that Coach Habas shares these values, and will inspire our players to uphold the rich legacy of this great Club. On behalf of the entire East Bengal family, I extend him a very warm welcome and wish him the very best in this exciting journey."
The appointment comes with significant expectations given East Bengal's recent success and the passionate fanbase that expects the club to challenge for every trophy.
Habas Ready for Another Indian Football Journey
For Habas, the opportunity represents another challenge in a country where he has already enjoyed considerable success. Speaking after his appointment, the Spaniard acknowledged the responsibility that comes with leading one of India's most historic football clubs.
"It is my true honour to join East Bengal. I embrace this challenge with excitement, humility, and a great sense of responsibility. From today, all our efforts will be dedicated to representing this badge with pride, and fighting together to achieve the club's ambitions. I am looking forward to seeing all the fans soon in Kolkata."
His words reflect an understanding of East Bengal's rich history and the expectations that accompany the role.
Few clubs in Indian football command the emotional connection that East Bengal enjoys, and success is measured not only through results but also by the commitment displayed on the pitch.
East Bengal have also confirmed the appointment of Carlos Agustín Fonseca Teijeiro as assistant coach for the upcoming season. Fonseca arrives with extensive international coaching experience and is expected to play a key role in implementing Habas' football philosophy while strengthening the club's technical staff. According to the club, his expertise in professional coaching and modern football methodologies will complement Habas' leadership and contribute to player development across the squad.
Together, the duo brings a blend of tactical knowledge, man-management skills and experience in building title-winning teams. Reports also indicate that Habas' trusted support staff will include Alberto, who is expected to join as the club's sports scientist, further reinforcing East Bengal's backroom setup.
Antonio López Habas has built his reputation on delivering results. Throughout his coaching career in India, his teams have consistently been among the league's strongest defensively while demonstrating tactical discipline and resilience in high-pressure situations. East Bengal will hope those qualities translate into another successful campaign as they prepare to defend their ISL crown and compete across multiple domestic competitions.
The club enters the 2026-27 season with momentum, but expectations will be significantly higher following their championship-winning campaign. For Habas, the task is not only to maintain East Bengal's position among Indian football's elite but also to build a sustainable winning culture capable of delivering long-term success.
His appointment represents more than just a coaching change; it signals East Bengal's intent to continue competing at the highest level of Indian football.
With one of the country's most successful coaches now in charge and an experienced technical team assembled around him, the Red & Gold Brigade will enter the new season aiming to add another successful chapter to their illustrious history.
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