How Lalrinliana Hnamte went from Mohun Bagan's backup to Chennaiyin's backbone

Midfielder Lalrinliana Hnamte who takes on his former club Mohun Bagan SG once again on Tuesday is making waves at Chennaiyin FC this season a release from ISL statedNot every footballers journey follows a straight path and for midfielder Lalrinliana Hnamte its been a winding road Once a benchwarmer at Mohun Bagan Super Giant Hnamte has evolved into one of Chennaiyin FCs most reliable players this season embodying the spirit of a player who still has a lot to proveAs he prepares to take on his former club in the Indian Super League ISL on Tuesday heres a look at the rise of one of the finest young midfielders in the leagueWhen Hnamte made his ISL debut for East Bengal FC in the 202122 season few could have predicted the trajectory his career would take The Mizoramborn player quietly went about his business showing flashes of potential in his debut season But it wasnt until his move to rivals Mohun Bagan SG that his journey truly began to take shape albeit with challengesAt Mohun Bagan SG Hnamte was part of a starstudded squad making it difficult to carve out a regular starting role Over two seasons he won an ISL Cup and the Shield but played just 443 minutes combined mostly featuring off the bench Despite limited game time when given the opportunity Hnamte showcased why he deserved to be at one of the biggest clubs in Indian football hinting at a player on the verge of a breakthroughFast forward to the 202425 season and Hnamtes move to Chennaiyin FC under the watchful eye of head coach Owen Coyle has proved to be a masterstroke Coyle known for developing young talent has brought out the best in him Its often said that some players need the right system and manager to truly flourish and Hnamte is living proof of thatSince donning the Chennaiyin FC jersey Hnamte has emerged as a key player in Coyles setup In just 16 appearances he has clocked an impressive 1204 minutes on the field more than doubling his game time from his two seasons at Mohun Bagan SGBut its his defensive prowess that has caught everyones attention Hnamte leads the league in successful tackles this season with 37 and has 19 interceptions to his name the secondhighest among his teammates making him a defensive powerhouse His contributions have not been limited to his defensive abilities as the 21yearold has also chipped in with a goal and an assist this campaignHis impressive performances for Chennaiyin FC earlier in the season earned him his first callup to the national team in October last year where he made his debut against VietnamAt just 21 Hnamtes maturity on the field has been remarkable He plays with the composure of a veteran yet hes still in the early stages of what promises to be an exciting career ahead For Chennaiyin FC currently navigating the choppy waters of the lower half of the table Hnamte has been one of the bright spots in their mixed campaignDespite their position in the standings Chennaiyin FC have shown they can compete with the best teams As Coyles men set their sights on the playoffs Hnamte will undoubtedly be central to their playoff ambitionsWith agency inputs