"Very excited and grateful to be part of this amazing club" - Mohun Bagan SG youngster Lalrinliana Hnamte joins Chennaiyin FC
Chennaiyin FC have confirmed the arrival of Lalrinliana Hnamte from Mohun Bagan Super Giant, marking their 11th signing of the summer. The 21-year-old has signed a three-year deal that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2026-27 season.
Hnamte made a name for himself while playing for Bagan’s rivals, East Bengal FC. In his debut season in 2021, he made 17 appearances for the Red and Gold Brigade and incidentally scored his first ISL goal against Chennaiyin FC.
The following season, the Mizoram-born midfielder moved to Mohun Bagan SG, where he made 36 appearances and scored once over two seasons. During his tenure with Bagan, he won the Durand Cup, the ISL Shield, and the ISL Cup.
Speaking to the Chennaiyin FC media after signing the contract, Hnamte expressed delight in joining the two-time ISL champions.
“I’m very excited and grateful to be part of this amazing club and I can’t wait to play in front of the fans. I will give absolutely everything I have to help this team win," he said (via CFC Media)
Head coach Owen Coyle, who is known for developing young players, praised Hnamte, stating that he will bring a different option to Chennaiyin’s already strong midfield core.
"With the ability he possesses, we haven’t seen as much of Hnamte as we should’ve in the league. He’s a fantastic young boy who will offer something different to our midfield options," Coyle said (via CFC Media)
How will Lalrinliana Hnamte fit at Chennaiyin FC?
The lack of playing time with the Mariners due to their squad depth likely influenced Hnamte’s decision to join Chennaiyin FC. But the youngster has played in various midfield positions and has consistently impressed despite the lack of consistent playing time.
At Mohun Bagan, the former East Bengal player was utilized in a box-to-box midfield role. His ability with the ball in tight spaces, technique, and passing range have made him one of the most talented and sought-after midfielders in the country.
Chennaiyin FC already have players like Jiteshwor Singh, Jitendra Singh, and Ayush Adhikari, who excel in the midfield pivot role. Consequently, Hnamte might be deployed higher up the pitch as a number 10, at least in his first season.
There is certainly competition for places, but with talented youngsters vying for the midfield spot, Hnamte is poised to grow as a player under Owen Coyle.