Chanmari FC’s new head coach Steven Dias will have to work with a coaching staff comprised of local Mizoram personnel in the upcoming IFL season.

Chanmari FC are set for a change in the dugout ahead of the upcoming Indian Football League (IFL) campaign, with former India international Steven Dias expected to take over as the club’s next head coach.

MyKhel understands that Dias is likely to assume charge shortly and is expected to reach Mizoram around September 23-24.

His arrival will also mark the beginning of Chanmari’s next phase of preparations, with the club planning to accelerate its recruitment process, including the signing of foreign players.

While Dias will lead the coaching setup, Chanmari are expected to retain a strong local flavour in their support staff. Current head coach Rochhingpuia, who is presently guiding the team in the Mizoram Premier League, is set to remain with the club and become part of Dias’ coaching staff for the IFL campaign.

The move reflects Chanmari’s intention to combine an experienced head coach with local knowledge of the players and football ecosystem in Mizoram. The club’s familiarity with the region could prove particularly useful as it builds its squad for another IFL season.

Changmari FC to sign Foreign Players

Chanmari’s foreign recruitment is also expected to begin after Dias’ arrival. The club could bring in anywhere between two and five overseas players, with the final number likely to depend on the available budget and recruitment requirements.

The club had previously been cautious about overseas recruitment amid uncertainty over financial support. MyKhel had reported earlier that Chanmari were awaiting clarity on assistance from the Mizoram government before committing to foreign signings.

Chanmari are among the 11 clubs confirmed for the 2026-27 IFL season, which is scheduled to begin on October 16.

The club finished fifth in the championship phase of the 2025-26 IFL, collecting 15 points, and will now look to reshape the squad and coaching structure ahead of the new campaign.

With Dias set to arrive later this month, Chanmari’s preparations are expected to gather pace, with coaching appointments and overseas recruitment likely to be among the immediate priorities.