Indian Super League (ISL) side Chennaiyin FC have secured the services of versatile defender PC Laldinpuia on a three-year contract, which will see him at the club until the end of the 2026-27 season. The 27-year-old from Mizoram is known for his ability to operate in the defence as well as midfield. He has joined the Marina Machans following an impressive performance with Jamshedpur FC.

Interestingly, Laldinpuia made his ISL debut with Jamshedpur under Owen Coyle in 2022 and he was also part of the team that lifted the ISL League Shield in the same year.

"In Laldinpuia we have got an incredible centre-back on the back of a great season on our hands. I have worked with him briefly and I'm confident he will be well-loved amongst the squad," head coach Coyle said.

Having previously played under Coyle, the talented footballer has a great understanding of the head coach’s playing style and is expected to play a crucial role when he reunites with the Scotsman at Chennaiyin FC.

"When they told me that they were interested in me, I was very excited to join the club. A big team and the coach is also a good coach, I know his system and all so I can play under him," Laldinpuia expressed excitement about joining Chennaiyin FC.

Laldinpuia has played 35 matches in the last three ISL seasons. With 37 interceptions and 15 blocks, he was one of the standout performers for Jamshedpur FC in the last season. He also won 106 duels and 35 tackles.

Laldinpuia began his career with Chhinga Veng FC in the I-League second division in 2019 and later also played for Aizawl FC in the I-League.

Odei Onaindia extends his stay at FC Goa

Indian Super League (ISL) side FC Goa, on Friday, announced that Spanish defender Odei Onaindia has extended his contract with the Gaurs for one more season.

The centre-back, who joined the Gaurs last summer, played a pivotal role in the team’s defensive solidity and leadership throughout the 2023-24 season.

Onaindia’s impressive performances saw him make 32 appearances across all competitions, missing just one game under head coach Manolo Marquez and starting in every match he played. His presence was instrumental as FC Goa reached the semi-finals of the Durand Cup 2023 and the ISL Cup playoffs and finished third in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 league stage.

Notably, the defender also captained the team in nine matches, showcasing his leadership on and off the field.

Reflecting on his contract extension, Odei Onaindia said, “I am extremely happy to continue my journey with FC Goa. The past season has been fantastic, and the support from the fans, staff, and teammates has been overwhelming.

“We would have liked to end the campaign with some silverware, but unfortunately that did not happen. But that has only fuelled our ambition further, and I’m looking forward to building on our achievements and striving for more success in the coming season,” he added.

Under the 34-year-old’s leadership, Goa’s defence achieved remarkable feats, including registering the joint-fewest number of defeats in a single league season and the fewest goals conceded by the club in a league season since 2016.

These defensive efforts were crucial in helping the Gaurs achieve a club-record 45 points in the ISL league season, their highest ever.

Lokesh Bherwani, FC Goa’s Director of Football, expressed his excitement about Onaindia’s contract extension: “We are thrilled to have Odei continue with us. His defensive prowess and leadership have been invaluable to the team.

“His commitment to the club reinforces our strategy of retaining a strong core and striving for greater achievements together. His commitment on the field and his influence in the dressing room are qualities that make him a key player for us. We believe he will continue to play a vital role for us,” he concluded.

Abhishek Suryavanshi pens new contract at MBSG

Abhishek Suryavanshi has put pen to paper on a new three-year deal, which will see him extend his stay with Indian Super League (ISL) outfit Mohun Bagan Super Giant until the end of the 2026-27 season, the club announced on Friday.

The young midfielder has become a crucial player under Antonio Lopez Habas. Suryavanshi has excelled in the role of a holding midfielder, providing robust protection for the Mariners' defence. His composure and calmness on the ball secured him a place in the starting XI ahead of several high-profile players. Suryavanshi played a pivotal role in their League Shield triumph.

This season, he appeared in 14 ISL matches. The 23-year-old boasted a strong passing accuracy of 86%, averaging 34 passes per game. His defensive contributions were significant, with 62 recoveries, 26 interceptions, and 15 clearances.

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Mohun Bagan Super GiantFC GoaChennaiyin FC2023-2024 PC LaldinpuiaAbhishek Dhananjay SuryavanshiOdei Onaindia