Twenty-Year-Old Striker Talks Ahead Of His Loan Move To East Bengal…

On penning a new deal with Bengaluru FC…

I am very happy that I have signed an extension with Bengaluru FC. My dream has always been to play for BFC, but as of now I am young and the squad is very good, so I understand that it’s going to be difficult to break into the first team. At the same time, playing for East Bengal is a big opportunity considering their history. They’re one of the biggest teams in the country and I will try my best to get as much playing time as possible and return with more experience for the next season.

On the Blues’ faith in him…

It feels good to know that the club believes in me for the future and that motivates me. The only thing I can do is to work as hard as I can and not let them down. I will try my best to learn as much as I can while giving my best for the team.

On what he expects at East Bengal…

From what I’ve seen, both teams have similar tactics given that we play with Spanish coaches. I am really looking forward to getting playing time at East Bengal. In fact, there’s so many Mizo players there as well, so that will help me. Their captain, Dika (Lalrindika Ralte) is from my village itself, and it’s a big thing for me to get to play with them, because they are my childhood idols.

On returning to play in the I-League after his previous stint with Arrows…

The competitions I have played this season, the Durand Cup, the BDFA Super Division and the ISL, were all unique and there was a different challenge in each one. I thank the coach for giving me this opportunity and I’m looking forward to the challenge at East Bengal. I want to use all this experience that I’ve had so far with Bengaluru when I play in the I-League. I don’t think I will have to be under pressure because I have played in the I-League before with Indian Arrows. The level is really high at Bengaluru, and I expect a very tough challenge at East Bengal as well. In Arrows, we had a young team, whereas in East Bengal, we have quite a stronger team. The only thing I’m focused on right now is to work hard and play.