Kathmandu: Butwal Lumbini Football Club (BLFC) announced  retention of midfielder Arik Bista and signing of attacker Manish Dangi as marquee player for the third Nepal Super League (NSL), a franchise football tournament featuring seven teams.

Both Arik and Manish are key members of the Nepal national squad. Arik had also shouldered captain’s responsibility in the last edition of NSL held from November 24 to December 30, 2023.

BLFC had made exit from the league round in the season finishing sixth in the nine-team contest as only top four teams earn berths for the playoffs.

“Arik has been an essential part of our squad, and we look forward to continuing this journey together,” said Sushil Kadariya, the BLFC president issuing a press statement.

“We are thrilled to welcome Manish Dangi, whose talent and experience will add a new dimension to our attacking strategy. Our supporters can look forward to an exhilarating season ahead,” Kadariya added.

Only seven teams will compete in this season of NSL as Sporting Ilam De Mechi FC and Birgunj United FC withdrew participation from the tournament.

The auction for the third edition of the NSL will take place on February 22. Organisers Nepal Sports and Event Management are yet to announce the date of the tournament that will feature seven franchise sides.