Emami East Bengal FC have officially announced the signing of Indian national team forward Edmund Lalrindika from Inter Kashi FC on a three-year contract for an undisclosed transfer fee. The 26-year-old attacker, who hails from Mizoram, will don the coveted jersey number 10 as he returns to the Red & Gold Brigade after a five-year hiatus.
Edmund, a versatile forward capable of operating as a striker, winger, or attacking midfielder, previously featured for East Bengal during the 2019-20 I-League season, on loan from Bengaluru FC. He made a strong impression by providing an assist on his debut in the Kolkata Derby against Mohun Bagan on January 19, 2020, but an injury in the same match curtailed his involvement.
Welcoming the forward back to the club, Thangboi Singto, Head of Football at Emami East Bengal FC, remarked,
“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.”
In the recently concluded 2024–25 season, Edmund featured in 24 matches for Inter Kashi, amassing 1,846 minutes, 4 goals, and 6 assists. Across the last two I-League seasons, he recorded a combined 8 goals and 13 assists, underlining his growth as a creative and reliable attacking outlet.
A product of the AIFF Elite Academy, Edmund spent five years with Bengaluru FC (2019–2024) before being loaned out to Inter Kashi in 2023. His consistent performances earned him a senior national team debut in a FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Kuwait at Kolkata’s Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on June 6, 2024.
Speaking on the signing, Head Coach Oscar Bruzon said,
“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. I am happy because we’ve secured a player who is growing in stature and can truly make a difference in diverse attacking situations.”
In an emotional response, Edmund expressed his excitement at returning to the club where his top-tier journey had once faced an abrupt halt.
“I’ve always dreamed of returning to East Bengal. I sustained an injury on my debut during my first stint, and it couldn’t have been more unfortunate, especially since it happened during a derby at the VYBK. Now that I am back, I believe I have some unfinished business here. I want to give my all, score goals, win derbies and tournaments for this great club. The East Bengal fans showed me a lot of love five years ago. Now I want to show them what I am truly capable of. Joy East Bengal!”