ISL: Punjab FC set to sign midfielder Vinit Rai

Vinit Rai won the 2023-24 edition of the Indian Super League with Mumbai City.

Fresh off their promotion from the I-League to the Indian Super League, Punjab FC managed a commendable debut season in the ISL 2023-24, finishing eighth and outperforming financially stronger teams like East Bengal and Bengaluru FC. Looking to capitalize on this momentum, the club are poised to bolster their squad with the addition of Indian international Vinit Rai.

Vinit Rai is set to join Punjab FC as a free agent on a two-year deal following his successful stint with Mumbai City FC, where he was part of the ISL 2023-24 championship-winning team. The central midfielder made 15 appearances last season, accumulating 374 minutes of playing time.

Seeking a club where he could assume a more significant role within the squad, Rai found a suitable opportunity with Punjab FC, a club eager to enhance their competitive edge in the upcoming season.

A source informed Khel Now this afternoon, “Vinit was seeking a new opportunity. There were a few clubs after him too, but Punjab FC’s project attracted the midfielder.”

How Vinit Rai fits in at Punjab?

Punjab FC didn’t have a foreign defensive midfielder like most other teams in the Indian top flight. They relied on Amarjit Singh or Samuel Kynshi and even promoted centre-back Nikhil Prabhu to the role. With the inclusion of Vinit Rai, they now have an experienced figure who will dictate the tempo of the game from the middle of the park.

Vinit Rai has played for various clubs and is a winner of the Indian Super League too. His addition will bring a winning mentality to the squad. Moreover, at 26, Rai is also a probable candidate to make his mark in the Indian national team in the near future. Hence, this deal also offers him proper playing time to hone his skills and attract the interest of Igor Stimac.

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