Mumbai City FC star Apuia to join rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant for the 2024-25 season - Reports
Reigning ISL champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant have made a notable acquisition in the transfer market, with Mumbai City FC’s Lalengmawia Ralte (Apuia) set to join them for the upcoming season. According to Times of India journalist Marcus Mergulhao, Apuia officially requested his release from Mumbai City FC, triggering the release clause that facilitated his move to the Mariners.
Despite Mumbai City’s reluctance to lose one of their key players to a rival, they have no option but to comply once the clause is activated.
This transfer may prompt Mumbai City to look for a highly-rated central midfielder, with Kerala Blasters FC’s Jeakson Singh already linked to the two-time ISL champions.
Apuia began his career with Indian Arrows and gained recognition at NorthEast United FC, where he joined in 2019. He won the ISL Emerging Player of the Year award in 2021 and subsequently moved to Mumbai City FC that summer. During his three-year tenure, he won both the ISL Shield and the ISL Cup.
At just 23 years old, the Mizoram-born midfielder is already considered one of India’s best and has regularly represented the national team. He has also amassed over 80 appearances in the ISL, featuring 12 times in the AFC Champions League.
How will Apuia fit into Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s system?
After announcing the decision to let go of Antonio Habas, Mohun Bagan SG announced the arrival of former ISL-winning coach Jose Molina as the new head coach. It will certainly be interesting to see how he utilizes Apuia, given the club’s strength in depth in that position.
Nevertheless, the midfielder is set to be a crucial asset for the Mariners. Competing in four competitions this season, this quality depth could ultimately prove to be the difference in their aim to retain the ISL Shield and advance into the knockout rounds of the AFC Champions League 2.
Apuia has played in multiple positions for Mumbai City FC. He has operated as a deep-lying playmaker under Kratky and as a No. 10 under Des Buckingham. This versatility is ultimately a huge bonus for Bagan, as he can effectively contribute in all these positions.
However, since they already have the likes of Anirudh Thapa and Sahal Abdul Samad, who play higher up the pitch, Apuia might be used deeper in midfield and partner with Joni Kauko. He could be in charge of dictating the proceedings from midfield and sitting in front of the back four to prevent counter-attacks, a role that suits him well.