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Pune FC has brought on experienced youngster Arup Debnath to complete their line-up in goal ahead of the 2013-14 season.
The twenty-five year old, West Bengal-born custodian joins Pune FC after a season-long stint with Mumbai Tigers FC and joins Shahinlal Meloly and Amrinder Singh in the goal. Interestingly, Arup was part of Pune FC’s wish-list back in 2009-10.
Arup’s signing by-far is Pune FC’s fourth for the 2013-14 season after Prakash Thorat (striker), Jovel Martins (midfielder) and Anthony D’Souza (midfielder). Arup’s signing continues to be in line with the club’s philosophy of building a young squad for the future.
Pune FC Head Operations, Chirag Tanna said, “Pune FC welcomes Arup on board. I am sure his age syncs with our objectives of building a youthful and exciting side for the season. I wish him all the best during his stint with us.”
Arup added: “I always had an eye on Pune FC, I am happy that the time has come. I thank all who kept faith in my ability and want to prove myself now.”
“I was very close in joining Pune FC earlier. Fate back then was not to be on my side, but now I have the opportunity to show my worth.”
Graduating from Steel Authority of India (SAIL), Bokaro, Arup as a 19-year-old began his professional career signing for East Bengal in the 2006-07.
Arup, thereafter, spent another season in Kolkata but had limited playing time owing to the experienced likes of Naseem Akhtar, Abhra Mondal, and Subrata Paul. He then moved to Mumbai signing for Air-India for the 2008-09 season.
In Mumbai, as a first-choice keeper, Arup helped Air-India avoid the drop with a string of performances that helped establish himself as a high-rated shot-stopper in the I-League.
Following this breakthrough season, Arup rejoined East Bengal for the 2009-10 season. However, like his previous stint, Arup was in a limited role.
The following season (2010-11), Arup returned to Air-India. He had a great start to the season playing the first seven games. However, Arup suffered a serious injury incidentally in a match against Pune FC at the turn of the year.
Falling awkwardly in a collision with then Pune FC striker Keita Mandjou, saw him suffer a serious hand injury. The subsequent operation and treatment saw Arup miss the remaining season and some more of the next.
Post a long period of rehabilitation; Arup joined Kenkre FC ahead of the I-League 2nd Division qualifiers stage during the 2011-12 as he looked to re-establish himself, which turned out successful.
Thereafter, Arup joined at Mumbai Tigers in the 2012-13 season. He cemented his position in the goal during the Durand Cup campaign where Mumbai Tigers finished runners-up and throughout their I-League 2 campaign.
