Kolkata : SC East Bengal delightedly announced the signing of Croatian center back Franjo Prce from Slaven Belupo for a season on Wednesday September 15 ahead of the preparations for Indian Super League 2021-22.
“I have been on the move from a very young age. I have played in Italy when I was in my formative years as a footballer and it was an amazing experience. Likewise, India excited me and when the offer from such a big club like SC East Bengal came my way, it was a no-brainer,” Prce said after completing formalities.
“I have played with some of the big names in world football and it has helped me grow on and off the field. I think I can use my experience here in the ISL and try to help my team do well. I am eagerly waiting to experience India and I also know this club has a massive fan base. It’s a shame that they can’t be with us in the stands but we will play for them. We always play for the fans,” he added.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina international started his youth career with the academy of Hajduk Split before making his move to Lazio in 2014 after the former club refused to hand him a professional contract. He made 27 appearances for Lazio Primavera before being loaned to Salernitana.
Prce made his senior club debut for Lazio in 2016 and was sent to Brescia followed by Istra 1961. Later he moved to play for Crypriot club Omonia , Karpaty Lviv and Varazdin before joining Slaven Belupo in 2020
The 25 year old was included in the Croatian squad for 2013 UEFA European U-17 Championship along with the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup before being called up for U-21 encounter against Slovenia in March, 2017.
Prce is the third foreign signing of the Kolkata side after they brought in Manuel Manolo Diaz as the head coach. Prce would be really effective in solving the defense problems for the Indian Super League side.
