I-League 2nd Division side FC Bengaluru United (FCBU) have confirmed the signing of young upcoming players Yumnam Gopi Singh, Kynsailang Khongsit, Shelton Paul, Melroy Fernandes and Nihal Colaco.
These signings will bring in energy, freshness and balance to the FCBU squad ahead of the 2021-22 domestic season. FCBU will kick off their domestic campaign with the 2021 Durand Cup from September 5. This will be BDFA Super Divisions champions’ maiden appearance in the prestigious tournament.
Yumnam Gopi Singh is a 22-year-old Manipuri footballer who plays as a left-sided midfielder. A versatile athlete, Singh has also often been fielded centrally as an attacking midfielder. After beginning his career in the I-League at Neroca FC, Singh joined ISL side ATK, where he played primarily for the reserve team. He finally got his chance to play in the ISL in the 2020-21 season with East Bengal.
“I am looking forward to giving my best and helping FC Bengaluru United qualify for the I-League,” said Singh.
20-old defender Kynsailang Khongsit hails from Shillong, where he came through the ranks of hometown club Royal Wahingdoh FC. After spending a considerable part of his youth career there, Khongsit moved to Shillong Lajong in the summer of 2017. Khongsit racked up 22 appearances in the I-League for Shillong Lajong over his two seasons at the club.
“FC Bengaluru United has a mix of experienced and young players and I can learn a lot from being part of a set up,” said Khongsit. “This experience will help me be a better player in the future.”
Melroy Fernandes, who has played for prominent Goa clubs in the Goa Pro League and I-League over the last decade, joins as the third goalkeeper in the squad. Rounding up the new signings are local boys Shelton Paul, a winger, and striker Nihal Colaco, who is making a comeback to the squad, following his recovery from injury.
Speaking about the new recruits FC Bengaluru United head coach Richard Hood, said, "Gopi and Khongsit share the same flank and have had similar pathways of gaining minutes and building their relevance in the I-league and ISL before making their way to us. Technically sound and a tremendous capacity to play intense football for 90 minutes means they bring in the qualities that complement our style of play in the wide areas of the pitch."
Featured photo: FC Bengaluru United
