Hmingthanmawia pens long-term contract extension with Mumbai City FC

The 20-year old has played only twice for the Islanders since joining in 2019 but can expect more first-team opportunities in the future.

Indian Super League (ISL) side Mumbai City have extended the term of defender Hmingthanmawia, Khel Now can confirm. The 20-year old, who joined the Islanders from I-League outfit Aizawl in 2019, will be a part of the club for a few more seasons as per the latest developments in his contract situation.

“Hmingthanmawia has signed a long-term contract extension with Mumbai City FC,” a source close to the developments informed Khel Now. Despite having played just twice for them so far, the player is clearly a part of head coach Sergio Lobera's long-term plans.

Career so far

Hmingthanmawia, popularly known as 'Valpuia,' kick-started his football career at Aizawl FC's junior side after impressing with the Mizoram sub-juniors, whom he joined at the age of eight. His breakthrough with the Northeast side came in the 2017-18 season. He hasn't looked back since, making 40 appearances over the next two years, including five in the AFC Cup.

A versatile defender who can play as a centre-back, a right-back as well as in defensive midfield, the youngster has shown maturity that belies his age. He can be a threat in the air too, having scored once for the Islannders. Valpuia's move to Mumbai was seen as a step in the right direction for his development, but he has found first-team opportunities hard to come by in a star-studded side.

The youngster has just two league appearances under his belt till date, but now that he has penned an extension, the Mizoram-born starlet can expect more chances in the future.

Mumbai City's preparations

After clinching the League Winners' Shield and the title in the recent 2020-21 ISL season, the Islanders have begun preparations for the next edition of the ISL. They're in the midst of re-building the squad, with Valpuia's contract extension a testament to the same.

They are also actively pursuing several top talents who can aid in the successful defence of their crown. On Monday, they announced that Bipin Singh has signed a five-year extension on his deal, with more to follow in the days to come.

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