Indian Super League teams have already started doing the business for the upcoming season. Teams have already signed down players and amidst all of this, two time champions Chennaiyin FC have not been that much active. However, that changed a few hours ago as the Marina Machans have extended the contract with India international Anirudh Thapa.
The star midfielder has been an integral part of the Chennaiyin FC side over the years and extending his contract for another two years speaks a lot about his loyalty towards the club. The 24-year-old midfielder joined the team back in 2016 and will now continue to don the Chennaiyin FC blue until the end of 2024.
Thapa has played a great role in success for the club ever since joining. He has been a vital cog for all the Chennaiyin FC coaches over the years as they made it to two finals and won the title once in 2017-18 season.
The extension also shows how much Chennaiyin FC value the relationship and bond that they have with the young midfielder. Co-owner Vita Dani shared how Thapa is one of the best in India and extending him was like a no brainer.
“Anirudh Thapa came here young. And in that time, he’s won an ISL title, established himself as one of the best in the country and also captained Chennaiyin FC for a season. He’s made himself in Chennai. And now he will be one of the key players to make the future of Chennaiyin FC,” said Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani.
Thapa before joining Chennaiyin FC spent four years at the AIFF Elite Academy. After joining Chennaiyin FC he also went on a loan spell to Minerva Punjab where he gradually developed into a more refined player.
Currently Anirudh Thapa is the second most capped player with 101 appearances only behind Jerry Lalrinzuala who has 103 appearances for the club.
After putting pen to paper, Anirudh Thapa how he did not had to think much as Chennaiyin is his home and he can’t wait to enjoy the crowd back at the Marina Arena. “Chennaiyin FC has always been like a family to me. And Chennai, my home. So, this decision was not hard to make. I cannot wait to get started with the fans cheering in a packed Marina Arena,” shared a delighted Thapa.
