Young defender Hmingthanmawia has put pen to paper a four-year contract extension with Mumbai City FC, committing his future with the Islanders until May 2025.
Hmingthanmawia, also known as Valpuia, played at the sub-junior level in his home state of Mizoram before signing his first professional contract with Aizawl FC in 2016. The 21-year-old played for Aizawl's junior and senior sides before he was snapped up by Mumbai ahead of the 2019-20 season.
"I feel it’s a privilege for a young player like me to have the opportunity to be a part of the best club in India," Valpuia said. "Playing and training here under coach Sergio Lobera and with my teammates is making me a better player every day. Nothing comes without hard work and I want to keep learning and growing," he added.
"I have a lot to prove and I want to thank everyone at the club, including the head coach, my teammates, the staff and the fans for having my back. I promise to repay their faith and give my all for this incredible family,” the 21-year-old defender said to the club's website.
Valpuia made his debut for Mumbai City FC against Odisha FC in October 2019, while his first start came later in the campaign at home against NorthEast United FC. However, after four appearances in his debut ISL season, the 21-year-old defender is yet to make his first appearance under manager Sergio Lobera.
"Our focus is not only on winning trophies, but also on improving the level of Indian players and Valpuia is a fine young professional," Mumbai City FC Head Coach Sergio Lobera said.
"No doubt, he didn't get a game last season, but he has shown us during continuously in training what he can do on a football pitch. He is a very promising talent and has that hunger of doing better every day. We’re looking forward to helping him continue his development and I hope he has a long and a bright future ahead at Mumbai City FC,” Lobera added.
Featured photo: Mumbai City FC
