IMPHAL, May 20: Bijay Chhetri has made history by becoming the first Indian footballer to sign a full-time contract with a Latin American football club. The 23-year-old centre-back, who hails from Manipur, joined Uruguayan side Colón FC, which competes in the Segunda Division Profesional (second division) of Uruguay, on a permanent basis.
Chhetri initially joined Colón FC on loan from Chennaiyin FC in 2024 and made his debut for the Uruguayan club against La Luz in November last year. Following his stint, the club offered him a full-time contract in January 2025, recognizing his potential and commitment.
He is only the second Indian to play in Latin America, following in the footsteps of Romeo Fernandes, who featured for Brazilian club Atlético Paranaense on loan in 2015.
Reflecting on his journey, Chhetri expressed gratitude on social media, saying, “Some officials of Colon FC have also been really supportive of my growth since the day I arrived from Chennaiyin FC last year on a loan and subsequently earned a permanent transfer with the club in January. I would like to make a special mention to them.”
Chhetri’s footballing journey began in 2016 with Shillong Lajong. He made his senior debut with Indian Arrows in 2018 and has since played for clubs including Chennai City, Real Kashmir, and Sreenidi Deccan. His stint with Chennaiyin FC this season marked his first appearance in the Indian Super League (ISL).
Although he played only 25 minutes for Colón last season, Chhetri is determined to make a bigger impact in the coming season and build on his promising start in Uruguay.
