Jamshedpur FC announced yet another signing with William Lalnunfela. The Mizo striker comes with a stellar career under his belt; he has represented Mohun Bagan and he was part of the I-League 2016-17 winning team, Aizawl F.C.
On-boarding a stalwart like him will surely add more depth to the club in this season of ISL. His hard work, his relentless attitude to shine and his fierce gameplay is going to be something to look forward to.
Here are a few excerpts from his first interview as he explains his move to Jamshedpur FC, his big ISL debut, and his overall footballing journey:
On his journey from Aizawl, Mohun Bagan to now his big ISL debut with Jamshedpur FC
Oh wow! It has been an amazing ride so far! It was my dream to be a part of the ISL. With the growing popularity that the league has seen over the past few years, it feels good to say that my wish has finally come true. Now, my aim is to become a regular as one of the 11 players in the squad, give my all, and keep working hard for the team.
On how his footballing journey started
I started playing when I was 7 years old. I just fell head over heels in love with the sport that early and it would be the only thing on my mind most of the time. Then, I started playing in a local club called Tumpui GSA in Mizoram, and as they say, the rest is history.
On the challenges for a forward in India...
Given the chance, I am sure many Indian players would improve and stand up to the mark. As for me, I will keep working hard and give my best in the training sessions to earn the coach’s trust. I want to start for the team and prove that Indian forwards can also be relied upon to do the heavy lifting and be great finishers. It isn’t that we don’t learn a lot from our foreign teammates because we most definitely do, but their experience is essential for us to grow as players. I truly believe their presence improves us in many ways.
On his three year deal with Jamshedpur FC and his plans for the club
My first and foremost aim will be to contribute to the best of my abilities and help Jamshedpur FC top the league and win the ISL. I want to play the AFC Champions League with this club during my time here and I think the club is moving in the right direction to achieve it. As a team, we have to and we will give our best shot.
On working side by side with last season’s golden boot winner, Nerka Valskis
I am definitely excited to work alongside Valskis. It would be amazing to share the dressing room with a player of his calibre. I haven’t met him, but I know what he can do and I am looking forward to learning from him.
On winning the I-League with Aizawl F.C.
It was a fairytale, to be honest! When no one believed that we could do it, we did it and that joy was unimaginable. The league win with Aizawl F.C. will always be one of my best memories. I will cherish that memory forever.
