14/05/2025
From Lunglei to Kolkata Maidan: Edmund Lalrindika’s Emotional Return to East Bengal
Back in the winter window in 2020, East Bengal quietly secured the loan signing of 20-year-old young boy from Lunglei, Mizoram after his impressive performance in the BCDA Super Division. Tagged as a top prospect by his parent club, his arrival came at a time when East Bengal was reeling—having narrowly missed out on I-League the previous season. The club was in disarray: the coach’s relationship with management had soured, investors were on the verge of exiting, and discontent was brewing among fans. In the chaos, Lalrindika’s signing barely registered a blip on the radar.
But that changed in an instant.
Thrown into a trailing match at the second half, Edmund made an immediate impact. A piercing through ball from his boots stunned the crowd at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan, leading to East Bengal’s only goal of the match. Though the result didn’t favor the team, those fleeting moments were enough to capture the hearts of supporters.
Since then, Edmund has remained a fan favorite. Every transfer window since East Bengal’s arrival in the Indian Super League (ISL) saw fans clamoring for his return. And this year, their wish has finally come true—Edmund Lalrindika is back in Red and Gold.
Now a Indian international, Edmund has proven his mettle. This season with I-League outfit Inter Kashi, he started 15 matches, averaging 80 minutes per game. His attacking output—4 goals and 5 assists—amounts to a goal contribution every other game and an impressive 23% participation in the team’s overall goals. His versatility across the attacking line—capable of playing as a center forward, right or left midfielder, and attacking midfielder—makes him a valuable asset for any coach.
Notably, he is the only player in recent memory to receive a national team call-up from the I-League. He made his debut for India against Kuwait on June 6th last year and has since earned five international caps.
Now, as he prepares for his second innings with East Bengal, the expectations are immense. But so is the potential. If he can build on his early promise and deliver consistently, Edmund Lalrindika might just carve his name among the greats of the rugged, unforgiving Kolkata Maidan.
Let the journey begin.
