Jamshedpur, October 4: Jamshedpur FC have bolstered their attack with the signing of Cameroonian international Raphaël Éric Messi Bouli, in what is being billed as one of the marquee moves of the upcoming season. The 33-year-old centre-forward, standing at 1.86m, brings with him a strong reputation as a proven goalscorer across India and China.
Messi Bouli is no stranger to the Indian Super League, having enjoyed a standout 2019–20 season with Kerala Blasters where he netted eight goals in 17 matches, including a brace against Jamshedpur.
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He arrives at Jamshedpur FC after a short stint with East Bengal earlier this year, where he signed in February 2025 and featured until the end of the season. During his time there, he made five appearances across competitions, contributing two goals and an assist in just 353 minutes of play.
His return to India then comes on the back of prolific spells in China, where he scored 42 goals in 93 appearances for Nanjing City and added 14 goals with five assists for Shijiazhuang last season. A powerful target man, he is renowned for his aerial dominance, hold-up play and penalty-box instincts.
Head Coach Steven Dias welcomed the signing with optimism, saying: “Messi Bouli is a player of real quality and experience. He gives us a strong presence up front, someone who can score goals, link play, and set the tone for our attack. His hunger and professionalism are clear, and I believe he will have a big impact for us this season. Jam Ke Khelo, Jamshedpur”
Bouli has also represented Cameroon at senior level, earning six caps and finding the net during CHAN qualification. With more than 200 senior club appearances and over 70 professional goals across Cameroon, Iran, India, and China, he arrives in Jamshedpur as an experienced forward ready to lead the line.
Sharing his excitement, Bouli sent a message to the Jamshedpur faithful. “Jamshedpur fans, I am very happy to join this great team and I am ready for the upcoming season to fight and give my all for my teammates and for the club to achieve our goals. Let’s go for it and let’s do it together. See you at the Furnace.”
Bouli’s arrival is expected to provide both firepower and leadership as the Men of Steel target a strong run this season. Already, Jamshedpur FC has retained three foreigners, Stephen Eze, Rei Tachikava and Lazar Cirkovic, this season and addition of Messi Bouli will give a boost for Men of Steel.
Jamshedpur FC are currently training in Jamshedpur under the guidance of Steven Dias as they gear up for their Group B fixtures in Goa. The Men of Steel will open their campaign against FC Goa on October 26, followed by matches against North East United FC on October 29 and Inter Kashi on November 1.
