Punjab FC extend Khaimingthang Lhungdim's contract for three years
Synopsis
Khaimingthang Lhungdim is staying at Punjab FC for three more years — a quiet but telling move. The defender has been there since the I-League days, captained the side in the ISL, and racked up 85 appearances. In a club still finding its footing in the top flight, this renewal is as much about institutional memory as it is about defensive cover.
Key Takeaways
Punjab FC have signed defender Khaimingthang Lhungdim to a three-year contract extension ahead of the 2026-27 ISL season .
Lhungdim has made 85 appearances for Punjab FC across all competitions, with 1 goal and 7 assists .
He joined from NEROCA FC ahead of the 2022-23 I-League season and was part of the title-winning squad that earned promotion to the ISL.
The defender served as one of Punjab FC's captains during the 2025-26 ISL season , making 12 appearances .
Punjab FC finished 14th in the ISL in 2025-26 and are rebuilding ahead of the next campaign.
Punjab FC have secured the services of defender Khaimingthang Lhungdim on a three-year contract extension ahead of the 2026-27 Indian Super League (ISL) season, the club announced on 18 June. The renewal keeps one of the Shers' most experienced defensive figures at the club through at least the 2028-29 campaign.
A Journey from I-League to ISL
Lhungdim first joined Punjab FC from NEROCA FC ahead of the I-League 2022-23 season and has since been a constant presence in the squad across four seasons. He was part of the historic side that clinched the I-League title in 2022-23 — making Punjab FC the first club to earn promotion from the I-League to the Indian Super League through that route. Since his arrival, the defender has accumulated 85 appearances across all competitions, contributing 1 goal and 7 assists.
Leadership and Consistency in the ISL
Lhungdim's transition to top-flight football has been marked by steady contributions rather than headline moments. During the 2025-26 ISL season, he made 12 appearances and was among the club's designated captains, underlining the trust the coaching staff place in him. Punjab FC finished 14th in the ISL standings that campaign, and retaining experienced heads like Lhungdim is seen as central to the rebuilding effort ahead.
What Lhungdim Said
Speaking on the extension, Khaimingthang Lhungdim said: 'I just want to say that this feels like home. I have grown so much as a player and as a person during my four years here at Punjab FC. Some of the best moments of my life have come at this Club — winning the I-League and making my ISL debut. I feel immense pride every time I wear this shirt. And still, I feel there is so much more to be done. Our best days lie ahead of us. That's why I'm staying.'
Punjab FC's Background and Trajectory
Founded in 2020, Punjab FC made their I-League debut in the 2020-21 season and won the title just two years later in 2022-23, earning promotion to the ISL. The club, based in Mohali, is now in its second full cycle in the ISL and is actively building squad depth ahead of the 2026-27 edition. Lhungdim's renewal signals intent — retaining continuity from the I-League era while strengthening the core for a more competitive ISL run.
What This Means Going Forward
With the 2026-27 ISL season approaching, Punjab FC's decision to lock in a versatile, experienced defender for three years points to a longer-term squad strategy. Lhungdim's familiarity with the club's system and his leadership credentials make him a stabilising figure as the Shers look to improve on their 14th-place finish.
Point of View
An ISL debut, and a bottom-half finish — and through it all, Lhungdim has been a constant. For a side that finished 14th, the priority is not flash but foundation. Retaining a player who has lived the club's entire journey, from I-League underdogs to ISL regulars, is exactly the kind of unglamorous but necessary squad management that separates clubs with a plan from those without one.
NationPress
11 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Khaimingthang Lhungdim's new contract with Punjab FC?
Lhungdim has signed a three-year contract extension with Punjab FC, keeping him at the club through at least the 2028-29 season. The deal was announced on 18 June ahead of the 2026-27 ISL campaign.
How many appearances has Lhungdim made for Punjab FC?
Lhungdim has made 85 appearances for Punjab FC across all competitions since joining in 2022, contributing 1 goal and 7 assists. He made 12 appearances in the 2025-26 ISL season alone.
Was Lhungdim part of Punjab FC's I-League winning team?
Yes, Lhungdim was part of the Punjab FC squad that won the I-League in 2022-23, which made the club the first side to earn promotion to the Indian Super League through that route.
Where did Lhungdim play before joining Punjab FC?
Lhungdim joined Punjab FC from NEROCA FC ahead of the 2022-23 I-League season. He has remained with the club for all four seasons since.
How did Punjab FC perform in the 2025-26 ISL season?
Punjab FC finished 14th in the ISL standings during the 2025-26 season. The club is now preparing for the 2026-27 campaign with squad continuity, including Lhungdim's renewal, as a key focus.
