Chennai
Chennaiyin FC announced the return of experienced right-back Laldinliana Renthlei to their squad on Thursday. The 26-year-old defender from Mizoram previously played for the club from 2018 to 2020, contributing significantly to their journey to the Indian Super League (ISL) final in the 2019-20 season.
Renthlei, who spent the 2023-24 season with Odisha FC, becomes Chennaiyin FC’s 13th signing of the summer. He joins fellow defenders Vignesh Dakshinamurthy, Mandar Rao Desai, and PC Laldinpuia in strengthening the team’s backline.
Head coach Owen Coyle, who has worked with Renthlei during Chennaiyin FC’s 2019-20 ISL campaign and later at Jamshedpur FC, praised him as an ‘outstanding full-back’ and a ‘fantastic addition to the squad.’ Coyle emphasized Renthlei’s defensive skills, experience, and ability to contribute both on and off the field.
Renthlei expressed his excitement about rejoining Chennaiyin FC, citing the club’s winning spirit, its passionate fans, and his previous experience with coach Owen Coyle as key reasons for his return. ‘My goal this season is to work hard, stay focused, and help the team win the ISL,’ he said.
Renthlei began his career with Chhinga Veng, helping them win the Mizoram Premier League in 2017-18, before moving to Aizawl FC in 2017. He has also played for Jamshedpur FC, making 57 appearances, before his stint with Odisha FC last season. Known for his versatility, he has played as a right-back, central defender, and right midfielder.
