Mizoram’s Lallianzuala Chhangte’s leadership role confirmed for Mumbai City FC

Mizoram’s football sensation Lallianzuala Chhangte has been appointed captain of Mumbai City FC (MCFC) for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season. The dynamic India winger, who joined the Islanders in January 2022, has been a pivotal figure for the team, amassing 29 goals and 16 assists across 79 appearances. Chhangte’s stellar performance in the 2023-24 season saw him contribute to 16 goals (10 goals and 6 assists), making him the first Indian in ISL history to achieve over 15 goal contributions in consecutive seasons. His leadership on the field played a crucial role in securing the ISL League Winners’ Shield in 2022-23 and the ISL Cup in the following season.

According to a media release from MCFC, Chhangte is expected to exemplify professionalism and lead the team with distinction as they aim for continued success. The squad has been gearing up for the new season with an intensive training camp in Bangkok, Thailand, since July 28. As part of their preparations, they competed against Vietnamese top-division side LPBank Hoang Anh Gia Lai FC in a friendly on August 21. Mumbai City FC ended last season on a high note, boasting a league-best goal difference of +23 and the best defensive record, conceding just 19 goals. Goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa was a key figure, securing the Golden Glove with nine clean sheets. The team also set a record for the most goal scorers in a single ISL campaign, with 16 different players finding the back of the net.

Notable among the squad’s young talents was 22-year-old Vikram Partap Singh, who netted eight goals and earned the title of Emerging Player of the League. Looking forward, MCFC has made strategic signings, including the return of Brandon Fernandes after nine years and the addition of 19-year-old Supratim Das from Reliance Foundation Young Champs on a three-year deal.