Persija Jakarta, a prominent team in Indonesia’s top-tier football league, has solidified the future of Nepali international midfielder Rohit Chand by extending his contract for another season. This development puts to rest any speculation surrounding the player’s departure, as confirmed by his agent, Ratna Mustika, through a recent post on Instagram.
The 26-year-old Chand had been rumored to be exploring an opportunity to join an Australian A-League team, but ultimately chose to remain with Persija, where he will continue to play until the conclusion of the current season. His agent celebrated the retention with an Instagram post featuring Chand, signalling his commitment to the club: “Himalayan Tiger is back home.” Additionally, a message wishing him a safe journey to Indonesia accompanied the post.
Chand’s brother, Rabindra, also verified that Rohit departed for Indonesia on Wednesday to finalize the contract. He remarked, “The deal is almost final, and he will be with the club until December. The terms have been agreed upon and will be formalized upon his arrival in Indonesia for signing.”
This season marks Chand’s third consecutive stint with the Indonesia giants, who were champions of Liga 1 last year. His contributions were integral to Persija’s title-winning campaign, leading to his recognition as the league’s best player. Chand made history by becoming the first Asian player to receive this prestigious accolade. After the conclusion of the Liga 1 season in December, he returned to Nepal.
The midfielder’s future had been uncertain following team manager Ardhi Tjahjoko’s announcement of Chand’s intended move to an Australian club, and although the club initially sought a replacement in midfielder Jahongir Abdumuminov, the Uzbek player fell short of expectations. In light of this, the club reportedly presented a more favorable contract offer compared to the previous season, as noted by Rabindra, although he refrained from disclosing the financial specifics.
Rohit Chand, a graduate of the Anfa Academy, began his professional career with the Indonesian side in 2013 after a preceding stint with the I-League team Hal Sporting Club, which he joined in 2010. His journey in Indonesian football began with PSPS Pekanbaru in 2012 and despite encountering a significant injury while at Malaysian side T-Team in 2016, he returned to the sport robustly last year when he joined Persija.
Chand is one of only two current senior Nepalese players competing professionally abroad. He made his debut for the national team at the young age of 17 during the 2010 AFC Challenge Cup Qualifiers in Kathmandu, and he has since evolved into an essential component of the national squad. Initially recognized as a defender, he transitioned to a midfield role subsequent to his time with Hal Sporting Club.
In conclusion, Rohit Chand’s contract extension with Persija Jakarta not only solidifies the player’s career trajectory but also promises continued success for both the athlete and the club in the forthcoming Liga 1 season.
Leave a Reply