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What's the story?
In tonight's high-profile clash between Mumbai City FC and Bengaluru FC, a bit of history has been written. Sanju Pradhan, Mumbai's winger, has been given a start against Bengaluru FC, and in turn, has become the first player to make an appearance for four different ISL clubs.
In case you didn't know...
Pradhan emerged on the scene a decade ago and earned his big break by signing for East Bengal in 2008. He spent five years with the Kolkata giants and during that timespan, represented the Indian national team and won two Federation Cups, and the IFA Shield. The attacker from Sikkim then made his debut in the ISL with the formerly Atletico De Kolkata after a year-long stint with Salgaocar.
The heart of the matter
Pradhan won the ISL for the first time with Atletico De Kolkata but was shipped to NorthEast United FC for the second season. The 28-year-old again changed loyalties to sign for FC Pune City for the third season. He made seven appearances for the Stallions last campaign but could not always guarantee a starting berth under coach Antonio Habas.
What's next?
In the Indian players' draft, Mumbai City FC decided to rope in Pradhan for the fourth season and tonight, the pacy winger will register his name in the history books. He is expected to be a regular for the Islanders under Alexander Guimaraes this season, which means that the Indian international will once again be under the scanner.
Author's take
Pradhan is an experienced customer, who has plied his trade for various clubs around the country and has a good understanding of the ISL. Though he has not performed his best for the last couple of seasons, this season may cause a change in the narrative for Pradhan's career.
