Chanmari FC to play in IFL but but Foreign signings depend on Mizoram Government Funding

Chanmari FC will play in the upcoming Indian Football League (IFL) season, but their plans for overseas recruitment will depend heavily on the financial support they receive from the Mizoram government.

Following the recent AIFF Governing Council meeting, Chanmari are now turning their attention towards completing their squad. The club have already added local talents Lalliansanga Renthlei and Ramdinthara (Tharpuia), but the possibility of bringing in foreign players remains uncertain.

MyKhel understands that Chanmari are currently waiting for clarity on the financial assistance expected from the Mizoram government. A decision on the extent of the support is expected within the next three to four days, and only if the available budget permits will the club enter the overseas market.

The club is yet to rope in any foreign players and their arrival will depend directly on the potential aid from the Mizoram government.

"We are waiting on the Mizoram government's budget approval. They are likely to help us, and if the budget permits, we will sign foreign players. We will go to Aizawl and then have a talk, and it will be confirmed in next three to four days, " Chanmari's sporting director Hmingthana told MyKhel exclusively on Wednesday (September 9).

This is consistent with Chanmari's cautious approach outlined in MyKhel's earlier report. The club had been waiting for government assistance before committing to foreign signings, with sporting director Hmingthana previously confirming that the team would look abroad only if the financial backing materialises.

Chanmari currently have a largely local squad, with around 25 players from Mizoram. Their approach also reflects the financial challenges associated with competing in the revamped IFL. The league has approved a maximum of three foreign players on the pitch at a time for the upcoming season.

Their local coaching setup is currently handling the Mizoram Premier League side, but the coach does not possess the required licence for the IFL.

Chanmari's participation also gives Mizoram a significant presence in the competition, and they are set to be the sole Mizoram-based club in the IFL this season after Aizawl FC sold its licence to Nagaland United.

For Chanmari, therefore, the next few days could be crucial. If the government funding comes through, the club could finally explore foreign options and add experience to a predominantly Mizo squad. If not, they are likely to continue with their local-first strategy.