In a significant development for Indian football, Nepal international and Butwal Lumbini FC captain Arik Bista is gearing up for a thrilling stint with I-League side Shillong Lajong FC for the remainder of the season. The move comes as a strategic boost for Shillong Lajong FC, currently positioned fifth in the I-League table, aiming to enhance their midfield prowess and climb the rankings.

Arik Bista, born on 17 March 2000, has carved a niche for himself in Nepalese football as a versatile midfielder. His journey in professional football has been marked by outstanding performances, both at the national and club levels. Bista made his international debut on 13 November 2020, facing Bangladesh in Dhaka, and has since become a vital asset for the Nepal national team.

The talented midfielder tasted success in the Martyrs Memorial A-Division League during the 2023 season, contributing significantly to Butwal Lumbini FC’s triumph. Arik Bista’s prowess extends beyond his club achievements; in 2017, he represented Nepal in six matches as part of the U-19 team. Moving forward, he continued to make significant contributions to the U-23 team in 2019, participating in three matches.

Bista’s journey in club football includes stints with prominent teams such as Tribhuvan Army Club, New Road Team FC, and Lalitpur City FC. His experience and skill set make him a valuable addition to any team, and Shillong Lajong FC is poised to benefit from his presence on the field.

The news of Arik Bista’s move to Shillong Lajong FC has generated enthusiasm among football enthusiasts, not only in Nepal but also in India. The collaboration between players from the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) region and Indian clubs is seen as a positive step toward fostering stronger ties and enhancing the overall quality of football in the region.

As Bista prepares to don the Shillong Lajong FC jersey, fans eagerly anticipate the impact he will make on the I-League. The addition of such a seasoned midfielder is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to Shillong Lajong FC’s playing style, potentially propelling them to higher positions in the league standings. Football aficionados can now look forward to witnessing Arik Bista’s skills and strategic play on the Indian football stage, further solidifying the sport’s regional collaboration and elevating the overall standard of football in South Asia.

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