Football News: ISL Update - Rahim Ali to stay at Chennaiyin FC until 2024

Rahim Ali is one of the few players in the Chennaiyin squad that entered the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) final in the 2019-20 season. In his three-year-long stint, he has played 40 matches for the club. 

He scored four times and provided two assists. Now that he has confirmed his stay for two more years, Rahim remarked that he is happy about the extension despite rumours surrounding his possible transfer to Emami East Bengal.

He has never doubted the club and is confident about his future at the club. Co-owner Vita Dani talked about the player's growth over the years. 

She believes he has moulded himself into one of the most exciting young talents in the country. His valuable experience with the Indian national team would benefit the club. 

Meanwhile, Chennaiyin FC, co-owner of the team, said that Rahim's extension is an event of massive positivity for his team. 

How much experience does Rahim have?

Rahim had also played for the squad that won the SAFF Championship in 2021. He came off the bench three times, including the final match against Nepal, where he assisted India's third and final goal.

He played three matches, including one start against Colombia Under-17. Rahim has additionally made 31 appearances for I-League outfit Indian Arrows FC, a storehouse for India's talented youngsters. 

The Barrackpore-born player kickstarted his youth career with Mohun Bagan. The young talent is a product of the AIFF Elite Academy and was a part of the team participating in the Under-17 World Cup in 2017. 

The 22-year-old is currently a member of the Indian National team, having played six matches since his debut in September 2021. The Indian senior national team had played against Nepal in an international friendly that ended in a 1-1 draw.

What will the Marina Machans reap out of the contract extension?

For the Marina Machans, keeping Rahim Ali for the two upcoming seasons will be crucial for the team that looks to retain its core and maintain stability.

Meanwhile, Chennaiyin FC has kickstarted their preparations under new coach Thomas Brdaric's guidance for the upcoming Durand Cup, which starts later in August.

Top recruits this season, namely Kwame Karikari and Peter Sliskovic, have shown up in the city and started practising with the squad.