Kerala Blasters Sign Bikash Yumnam on Long-Term Deal
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Synopsis
Kerala Blasters FC has secured a long-term contract with young defender Bikash Yumnam, previously of Chennaiyin FC. The 21-year-old centre-back aims to contribute to the club's success until 2029. Yumnam, a rising star from Manipur, has a rich history in Indian football and youth national teams.
Key Takeaways
- Bikash Yumnam joins Kerala Blasters FC from Chennaiyin FC.
- Signed a long-term contract until 2029.
- Previously played for Indian Arrows and RoundGlass Punjab FC.
- Part of youth national teams and notable for his performance in the AFC U-16 Championship.
- Recognized internationally by The Guardian.
Kochi, Jan 19 (NationPress) Kerala Blasters FC have officially confirmed the acquisition of young defender Bikash Yumnam from Chennaiyin FC. The talented 21-year-old centre-back has signed a long-term contract that will secure his place at the club until 2029.
Born in Lilong Chajing, Manipur, Yumnam has emerged as a promising figure in Indian football. He kicked off his professional journey with Indian Arrows in the I-League, where his outstanding performances paved the way for a transfer to RoundGlass Punjab FC, allowing him to further develop his skills and gain essential experience.
Sharing his excitement about joining Kerala Blasters FC, Yumnam stated, “I am excited to start this new journey with Kerala Blasters FC. The club has a rich legacy of supporting and nurturing young talents, and I am eager to be part of the team’s success while growing as a player here.”
In January 2023, Yumnam made a move to Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League (ISL), marking his debut in India’s premier football league. Throughout his time with Chennaiyin FC, he enhanced his defensive skills, demonstrating his potential as a future star in Indian football.
“The club is confident that Yumnam’s addition will strengthen the defensive unit, providing a significant boost to the team’s ambitions for this season and the future. Bikash will soon join the squad in Kochi to commence training and integrate into the team. We wish him a successful journey in the iconic Blasters colors,” the club stated.
Yumnam has also consistently represented India’s youth national teams, including the U-16, U-19, and U-20 squads. Notably, he was part of the Indian U-16 team that reached the quarterfinals of the 2018 AFC U-16 Championship in Malaysia, where India conceded only one goal.
His performances at the youth level have significantly contributed to India’s successes, including winning the SAFF U-15 Championship in 2017 and the SAFF U-20 Championship in 2022.
In 2020, Yumnam gained international acclaim by becoming the first Indian footballer to be featured in The Guardian’s “Next Generation 2020” list, which highlighted 60 of the finest young talents in world football. The publication commended his composure on the ball, game-reading skills, and remarkable long throw-ins, indicating a swift transition to the senior national team.
Kerala Blasters FC’s Sporting Director Karolis Skinkys remarked, “We are thrilled to welcome Bikash Yumnam to the Kerala Blasters family. His talent and potential align perfectly with our vision for the future. We believe he will be a significant asset to our defense and we look forward to his development with us.”
