*Sportz Point Exclusive* ISL Transfer News: ATK Mohun Bagan sign right-back Ashish Rai from Hyderabad FC

In the latest ISL transfer news, ATK Mohun Bagan has reportedly signed right-back Ashish Rai from Indian Super League (ISL) champions Hyderabad FC. The Mariners were looking for a quality player at that position.

The 23-year-old seems to be the perfect signing with ATKMB's Prabir Das linked with a move to Bengaluru FC. The youngster has been a pivotal player for the Nizams over the last two terms and played a key role in their maiden title triumph in 2022. Meanwhile ATK Mohun Bagan made the play-offs last season but lost to Hyderabad FC in the two-legged semi-finals.

Rai's first break came when he became part of the Pune City Academy in July, 2017. And then, later in November, the full-back was inducted to Indian Arrows. He swiftly made his chances count, featuring in every game for the developmental side in the 2018-19 season. The move turned out to be the turning point in his career and the consistent performances throughout the season led to the move to the ISL. Rai signed for Hyderabad FC ahead of the 2019-20 season and there was no looking back from that point.

Rai didn't have a great debut ISL season with the Nizams, managing to register just a single assist in 14 appearances. He played over 1000 minutes with an average of 31 passes per game, with 60% accuracy. He also completed 2.7 crosses per game. Although Rai's numbers weren't great, his work ethic and never-say-die attitude was the impressive part of his game.

After a disappointing debut season for the club, that saw them finishing at the bottom of the ISL standings, the management appointed Manolo Marquez as the head coach ahead of the 2020-21 season. According to a twitter post by Marcus Mergulhao, ATKMB have completed the signing of Rai from HFC on a five-year-deal.

Under Marquez, Ashish evolved into one of the best full-backs in the country. He had a much better 2020-21 ISL season as his number soared up with uninterrupted game time. He registered 2 assists, 58% passing accuracy, 2.7 crosses and 43 passes per game in 18 appearances.

He was contributing at both halves of the field. His defensive number also developed, as he registered nine tackles and interceptions in every match. HFC missed the playoffs by a whisker in the 2020-21 season but their enterprising style of play earned them lots of applause.

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