XtraTime Web Desk: Sahal Abdul Samad is the next big thing in Indian football. The 23 year old attacking mid-fielder from Kannur, Kerala is taking giant strides ever since he made his debut for the Blue Pilgrims in the Kings Cup in 2019. The Kerala Blasters youngster has already impressed everyone with his dribbling and passing abilities.
Samad first came into prominence during the 2016-17 Santosh Trophy. His performance did not go unnoticed as he was soon tapped by Kerala Blasters spotters. He made rapid progress since joining Kerala Blasters reserve side back in 2017. After showing glimpses of his class in 2017-18 season of Indian Super League (ISL), the youngster enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with the Kochi based franchise during ISL 2018-19, winning the Emerging Player of the Season award. His impactful performances also earned him a national team call up and eventually a senior India debut at the King’s Cup 2019 in Thailand.
Apart from his ability to don the midfield, Sahal also has a nose for scoring goals. According to former India captain Bhaiching Bhutia, “In terms of scoring, Sahal can come and fit in. He’s playing more as link-up — an attacking midfielder. He just needs to start getting confidence of scoring, taking shots,” “Once he starts scoring, he can be a great finisher. He can take that position (of Sunil Chhetri). He is one future star for India,” Bhutia said in a live chat on the Indian Super League’s official instagram channel.
The 23 year old attacking medio did not get much opportunity in the ISL under Eelco Schattorie. He would definitely want to cement his place in the playing XI under Kibu Vicuna. The I league winning Spanish coach, who was roped in by the Blasters this season is impressed with Sahal.
According to Vicuna, “I am impressed with Sahal, he is a fantastic player. He is one of the best Indian players I have seen. I love these kinds of players. I think we have to create a good environment around him because I think he could be a very good player. He could be even better.”
This season should definitely be a make or break season for the talented attacking midfielder, who is touted as the future big star of Indian football.