Jamshedpur, October 2: Jamshedpur FC have bolstered their squad with the signing of 23-year-old wing-back Mark Zothanpuia for the 2025–26 season. The Mizoram-born footballer, a natural left-footer, brings valuable top-flight experience and versatility to the Men of Steel ahead of the Super Cup.

Zothanpuia, who can operate both as a wing-back and as a defensive midfielder, comes with a strong pedigree from stints at Hyderabad FC and East Bengal FC. He was part of Hyderabad’s ISL Cup-winning squad in 2021–22 and has since built a reputation for his composure in possession, and tireless work rate on the flanks.

His breakout season came in 2023–24 with Hyderabad FC, where he featured across the ISL, Kalinga Super Cup and Durand Cup, recording 1,971 minutes in 24 appearances. The campaign highlighted his all-round qualities, including 23 key passes, 81% passing accuracy, 95 recoveries, and 73 successful duels. A season later with East Bengal, he continued to add depth with seven ISL appearances before moving to Jamshedpur.

Head Coach Steven Dias welcomed the new arrival with optimism. “I’m delighted to have Mark join us. His versatility gives us more strength and options in defence, and from my conversations with him, I can see how motivated he is to make an impact. He’s eager, positive, and ready to contribute in the upcoming Super Cup.”

Zothanpuia said, “I’m really happy to sign for Jamshedpur FC and can’t wait to get started. This is a big opportunity for me, and I want to give my best every time I step on the pitch. My focus is on contributing as much as I can to help the team succeed this season.”

Jamshedpur FC are currently training in Jamshedpur under the guidance of Steven Dias as they gear up for their Group B fixtures in Goa. The Men of Steel will open their campaign against FC Goa on October 26, followed by matches against North East United FC on October 29 and Inter Kashi on November 1.