Lallianzuala Chhangte Picture Credit: Twitter
Indian Super League (ISL) side, Mumbai City FC on Tuesday announced the permanent signing of Lallianzuala Chhangte following his six-month loan spell with the club, with the winger signing a three-year deal with the Islanders. Notably, Chhangte was also a vital cog in the Club's AFC Champions League campaign, where he featured in all six group stage matches.
The 25-year-old has already made 97 appearances in the Indian Super League and is the third-highest Indian goal-scorer in the league's history with 20 goals under his belt. Although the Mumbai City footballer was part of the 41-player national camp that India head coach Igor Stimac had called in April ahead of the final round of the Asian Cup qualifiers, Lallianzuala Chhangte missed out on a spot in the Indian team.
However, the striker has expressed confidence in making a cut into the squad by stating that one gone opportunity brings another. "I was there in the 41-player camp but unfortunately I was not in the final squad. The team did a pretty good job, I am sure that I will be back soon," Lallianzuala Chhangte said in an interview with Hindustan Times.
Adding further, Lallianzuala Chhangte informed that his exclusion from the squad made him stronger and he believes that his opportunity will coom soon. "My mindset is always that I will give my best for the country and the club and I am going to be one of the main men for the team," he was quoted. Notably, Chhangte is one of the rare Indian players who have been invited for trials in a European club.
In 2019, Viking FK in Norway called Lallianzuala Chhangte for trials and was keen interest in signing him, but reportedly the deal could not be worked out. "I am still looking forward to an opportunity but it won't be easy. There are a lot of young players coming out, but if any such chance comes up, I will take it," he stated as per the same report.
He also admitted that he has become more mature now in terms of decision making, 'not just in front of goal but also about playing with the team.' Lallianzuala Chhangte also stated that being a good footballer is not just about scoring goals but also about following disciplined life. "It is also about how you live your life outside the pitch also. You have to sleep on time, get up early and do extra work," he concluded.