ISL: PC Laldinpuia joins Chennaiyin FC; FC Goa retain Odei Onaindia

Indian Super League outfit Chennaiyin FC has signed the services of PC Laldinpuia on a three-year contract, the club announced on their social media handles. This deal will keep him at the Marina Machans until the end of the 2026-27 season. 

Laldinpuia impressed while playing for Jamshedpur FC and will look to deliver the goods for Owen Coyle’s side. The defender played 21 matches in the Indian Super League 2023-24 season and scored a solitary goal for the club. 

Interestingly, the 27-year-old from Mizoram played under the tutelage of Owen Coyle for Jamshedpur FC in 2022.

“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.

The defender expressed his happiness after joining Chennaiyin FC ahead of the next season.

“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.

On the other hand, FC Goa has decided to retain the services of Odei Onaindia for one more edition. The Spanish center-back scored one goal in the previous season for the Gaurs in the 24 appearances he made in the ISL. 

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.

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.