Imphal: The sporting fraternity in Manipur is mourning the sudden demise of NEROCA FC head coach Gift Raikhan, who passed away at Shija Hospital in Imphal on Monday.
A native of Mapao Zingtun village in Ukhrul district and a member of the Tangkhul community, Raikhan was widely regarded as one of Manipur’s most influential football figures. His contributions as both a player and coach earned him immense respect across the state and the wider Northeast region.
Raikhan began his career as a professional footballer, representing several prominent clubs, including Churchill Brothers, HAL, Indian Bank, Vasco SC, BEML and Pune FC. After retiring from professional football, he devoted himself to coaching and youth development, mentoring generations of footballers from the region.
His death has been described as a major loss to the sporting community in Manipur and beyond.
In a statement, NEROCA FC expressed profound grief over the passing of its head coach, describing him as a passionate mentor, dedicated leader and an inspiration to countless players and football enthusiasts.
The club said Raikhan’s commitment to the game and his role in shaping the careers of numerous footballers would be remembered for years to come. It also extended condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.
Under Raikhan’s leadership, NEROCA FC won the I-League 2nd Division title in the 2016-17 season and secured promotion to the I-League, becoming the first club from Manipur to reach the top tier of Indian football.
His achievements earned him the prestigious Syed Abdul Rahim Award for Best Coach of the 2017-18 I-League season.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh expressed deep sorrow over Raikhan’s demise, describing him as an AFC ‘A’ Licence coach and distinguished footballer who made significant contributions to the development of football in Manipur.
“Through his dedication to the sport and his efforts in mentoring young talents, he left an enduring impact on the football community. His passing is a great loss to Manipur’s sporting fraternity,” the chief minister said.
Former chief minister N. Biren Singh also paid tribute, stating that Raikhan’s passion, leadership and commitment to the game inspired many young footballers across the state.
The Tangkhul Football Players Association likewise mourned the loss of one of its senior members, noting that throughout his career, Raikhan championed the belief that clubs from smaller footballing regions could compete with the traditional powerhouses of Indian football.
“His work helped strengthen the visibility of Northeast Indian football and contributed significantly to the broader development of the sport in the country,” the association said.
Describing his death as a monumental loss to both the Tangkhul and Indian football communities, the association added: “Gift Raikhan’s passion, leadership and dedication left an indelible mark on Indian football. His legacy will endure through the players he mentored, the clubs he transformed and the dreams he inspired.”
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