Indian Super League club NorthEast United FC have reached an agreement with Aizawl FC striker Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia for the next season. The talented forward scored 12 goals in 19 matches this season, helping Aizawl avoid relegation.
Lalbiaknia will join the 2024 Durand Cup winners, who already have strong attackers like Jithin M.S., Parthib Gogoi, and ISL Golden Boot winner Alaeddine Ajaraie. The 24-year-old is in the final month of his contract with Aizawl and is set to join NorthEast United for the 2025-26 ISL season.
NorthEast United FC Make One of Their Best Moves Yet
After a disappointing finish in the 2024-25 ISL playoffs, the Highlanders are now focused on making a strong comeback next season. To boost their attack, the club has signed a talented young Indian player who can help with goal-scoring.
Lalbiaknia had his breakthrough season in 2023-24 with Aizawl FC, scoring 15 goals and providing three assists in 20 matches. He continued his good form in the 2024-25 season, scoring 12 goals in 19 games, including an impressive two-goal performance in an important Week 22 match against Namdhari FC.
Top ISL Clubs Want to Sign Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia
NorthEast United FC had to compete with big ISL clubs like Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Jamshedpur FC to sign Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia. But the 24-year-old was especially impressed by what NorthEast United offered, including how they could help him grow as a player.
The club has helped many young Indian players rise, like Gurmeet Singh, Macarton Louis Nickson, and Parthib Gogoi, giving them a chance in top-level football. Lalbiaknia, who trained at the Bengaluru FC academy, also has a strong connection with NorthEast United’s CEO Mandar Tamhane and assistant coach Naushad Moosa. That played a big role in his decision.
Lalbiaknia has worked hard to reach this level, and joining NorthEast United shows his goal to play at the highest level. Head coach Juan Pedro Benali will be excited to train and shape a promising talent like him into a key player for the team.