Xtra Time Web Desk: Anirudh Thapa, the midfield maestro of India, is joining Mohun Bagan. In a five-year deal, the 25-year-old has signed with the Green and Maroons. Anirudh was a pillar of the Chennaiyin FC team, having played in the blue jersey for seven years. Now, he will play in the green and maroon jersey.
Joining Mohun Bagan, Anirudh expressed to Mohun Bagan Media, ‘I am truly delighted to have the opportunity to play for the reigning champions Mohun Bagan. The tradition and impact of the green and maroon jersey in Indian football are unmatched. I am thrilled to play wearing that jersey. I hope to make the supporters and fans happy with my performances.’
This Indian midfield star also mentioned, ‘Kolkata is the Mecca of Indian football. The dreams of playing there will now be fulfilled. Since I started playing football, I have always heard about the Kolkata Derby. Whenever there was a Kolkata Derby, I used to come and watch the match in Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium). I could feel the excitement of the Mohun Bagan supporters sitting in the gallery. Everyone used to say that to play the Derby, one has to be a star. Now, my dream is coming true. I can’t even imagine how thrilled I will be to step onto the field in front of thousands of supporters. They will come with the green and maroon flag, banners, and colors to support me and our team.’
Apart from the Derby, Anirudh Thapa also spoke about his other goals. He said, ‘Just as we have to win the Derby, there are two more objectives that I have. Since Mohun Bagan became the ISL champions last time, we have to maintain that momentum. Mohun Bagan is becoming even stronger now, signing the best footballers from India and abroad. So, I believe we have the power to become champions again. Alongside that, we have the opportunity to play in the AFC Cup this time. I have tasted victory in the national jersey in international matches many times. Now, the challenge is to win international matches wearing the green and maroon jersey. Becoming AFC Cup champions is difficult. We have to go through several stages. However, I think it’s our challenge to take the club to a respectable position in Asia or on the international stage.’
Speaking about Coach Juan Ferrando’s coaching style, Anirudh mentioned, ‘I know Coach Juan Ferrando’s style of play. He prefers an attacking style of football. Once again, I’m saying, this Mohun Bagan Super Giant is a team rich in stars. Most of the players on the team are familiar with Ferrando’s style. I need to adapt to that first. It’s important to synchronize my game with the coach’s strategy. I am an optimist, and I believe that by playing in my dream jersey, I will achieve success.'”