Five talented U-17 players from Nagaland have signed with Aizawl FC, a club based in Mizoram that plays in the I-League, marking a new chapter in their sporting careers. The young players arrived in Aizawl today to begin preparations for the U-17 I-League Qualifying Round, scheduled from January 23 to 31, 2025.
The players are: Khosayi Chakhesang – Goalkeeper; Moamenen Ao – Attacking Midfielder; Nahpan Konyak – Attacking/Defensive Midfielder; Manpa Konyak – Center Back; and Menohusie Rino – Forward.
These promising athletes hail from various parts of Nagaland and were carefully scouted for their potential after the U-17 BC Roy Trophy tournament in Assam. They will now represent Aizawl FC in their bid to make an impact in the U-17 I-League.
Coach Khwetelhi Thopi, a former professional footballer, played a pivotal role in guiding these young players to the club. Thopi, who retired from active football and holds an AFC C License (2024), expressed heartfelt gratitude to his former club, Aizawl FC, for recognizing Nagaland’s talent.
“I am very happy and thankful to Aizawl FC for giving these young Nagaland footballers such an incredible opportunity. On behalf of the U-17 BC Roy Trophy management team, I wish the boys the very best in this exciting journey,” said Thopi.
Meanwhile, Robert Mawia Royte, the owner of Aizawl FC, earlier said, “We are delighted to welcome these young, talented players from Nagaland into our club. Aizawl FC has always been committed to nurturing young talents from the Northeast, and this collaboration is a testament to that commitment. We look forward to their growth and success with us,” Royte said on social media.
Khwetelhi Thopi, a dedicated coach shaping the future of Nagaland football
Khwetelhi Thopi, a retired professional footballer, has made significant contributions to Nagaland’s football scene as a coach. He holds the AFC C License (2024) and has been actively involved in coaching roles, including serving as the head coach for the U-17 Nagaland team during the BC Roy Trophy in 2024. He also worked as the assistant coach for the Santosh Trophy Nagaland team in the same year. Currently, Thopi serves as the assistant coach for Nagaland United Sports Club in 2025.
Thopi’s coaching has led to remarkable achievements, including helping five U-17 players sign with Aizawl FC. Additionally, one of his players was called up for a trial at the AIFF Academy, another signed with Corbett FC, and a third player is undergoing a trial for the U-20 SAFF National Camp in Goa.
Notably, Thopi dedicated over 90 days of free service to coaching Nagaland football teams, providing 40 days of training for the U-17 team and 50 days for the Santosh Trophy team, all without any salary.