Edmund, who once assisted against Mohun Bagan, returns to East Bengal as its new No. 10

East Bengal officially announced India forward Edmund Lalrindika as its new No. 10, signing him on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee this summer.

This will be his second stint at the club, with the 26-year-old previously playing here on loan from Bengaluru FC in the 2019-20 season.

He had assisted on his East Bengal debut in a Kolkata derby against Mohun Bagan on January 19, 2020, but an injury in the same game cut his time short.

“I’ve always dreamed of returning to East Bengal. I sustained an injury on my debut during my first stint. It couldn’t get more unfortunate because it happened during a derby at the VYBK (Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan),” Edmund said.

“Now that I am back, I believe I have some unfinished business here.”

The forward takes over the No. 10 jersey from captain Cleiton Silva, who had led the side to the Super Cup last year. However, after falling out with head coach Oscar Bruzon, he mutually terminated his contract last season.

“Edmund is just fresh from an outstanding season with Inter Kashi, even earning well-deserved national team call-ups. We’ve been tracking his performances very closely,” Bruzon said.

“I am happy because we’ve secured a player who is growing in stature and can truly make a difference in diverse attacking situations.”

Hailing from Mizoram, Edmund is a versatile attacker capable of playing as a centre-forward, winger and attacking midfielder.

In the 2024-25 season, Edmund played 1,846 minutes across 24 matches for Inter Kashi, scoring four goals and providing six assists. The 26-year-old was a standout performer in the past two editions of the I-League, scoring eight goals and providing 13 assists.

A product of the AIFF Elite Academy, Edmund was part of the Bengaluru FC set-up from 2019 to 2024, before joining Inter Kashi on loan in 2023.

The young forward has also represented India at the U-14, U-16, U-19 and senior levels. He made his senior national team debut in a FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Kuwait on June 6, 2024.

“Edmund’s return is a massive boost for us. His proven track record, versatility and familiarity with East Bengal’s ethos and passionate fan base make him an exciting addition. We believe he will play a pivotal role in our ambition to chase and win major titles,” Thangboi Singto, the club’s Head of Football, said.