Khaimingthang Lhungdim signs three-year contract extension with Punjab FC
New Delhi, June 18
Punjab FC have signed a three-year extension with defender Khaimingthang Lhungdim before the 2026-27 season.
Lhungdim has been a part of the Punjab FC setup since joining from NEROCA FC ahead of the I-League 2022-23 season. Having arrived during the club's I-League (now known as Indian Football League) campaign, the defender has been part of the club's journey over the past four seasons, according to a release.
He was part of the historic I-League winning side which became the first team to gain promotion to the Indian Super League.
Since joining the Shers, Lhungdim has made 85 appearances across all competitions, contributing one goal and seven assists. A versatile defensive presence, he has featured regularly for the club in domestic competitions and was among Punjab FC's captains during the 2025-26 Indian Super League season, the release said.
The defender made 12 appearances in the ISL during the 2025-26 campaign, continuing to provide experience and leadership within the squad.
Speaking on his contract 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."
Having been part of the club's progression from it's I-League days to the Indian Super League, Khaimingthang will continue to bring experience and continuity to the squad as Punjab FC prepare for the upcoming seasons.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Happy for Khaimingthang! From NEROCA to leading Punjab FC in ISL, his journey is inspirational for young footballers from the Northeast. But I hope the club also invests in youth development alongside experienced players like him. We need more grassroots football in Punjab.
Solid move by Punjab FC. Lhungdim brings leadership and versatility - 85 appearances is no joke in Indian football. His experience will be crucial as they aim for top-half finishes in ISL. Nice to see the club building continuity rather than buying flashy names every window.
As a football fan from Manipur, it's heartening to see players from the Northeast getting recognition and long-term contracts. Lhungdim's loyalty to Punjab FC after being their captain shows his character. But one concern - only 12 ISL appearances last season suggests he might not be a regular starter anymore. Hope he proves me wrong! 🤞
Smart business by Punjab FC. Lhungdim is a proven leader who knows the club culture. His quote about "best days ahead" shows genuine commitment. In an era where players hop clubs for quick money, this kind of loyalty is refreshing. Hope he gets more game time to make an impact.
Nice to see Punjab FC building a squad with continuity. Lhungdim has been a silent warrior - 85 matches with only 1 goal shows his defensive focus. But I wish Indian clubs would give more chances to local Punjabi players too, rather than always relying on talent from other states. Nonetheless, best wishes to the Shers! 🙏