Desi Villareal Ex-Wonderkid : A home-lander or did he play too safe?

About a decade ago, there was hope within the Sub-continental footballing circles. The U-17 World Cup was just an year away, ISL was booming with stars like Roberto Carlos, Del Piero, Elano. On the horizon a potential wing-wizard who was on the cusp of breaking into a La Liga team, no ordinary team, a team which would go on to win the Europa League 4 years later. But fate had other plans for this  silky smooth player who primarily operated out wide.

A player who was touted as the talisman on the left wing but over the years he has been shuffled around the park and eventually has been left-back. At least his Villareal dream was due to a hamstring and had to return back after only four months. His dream of a return flight to Spain, even within the Segunda Division was scoffed by him not finding any fixed position and being seen as a utility player. This resulted in him never really getting a chance in attack and being pushed further back the field season after season.

Although this did his chances at the national stages good as he has amassed over 30 senior caps since 2018. He is primarily used as a wing back which is basically a compromise between the ultra conservative left back and the risky yet rewarding left wing position. However just like his career, he is left hanging in the middle, too safe for his own good. At least his career may be he actually is content with where he is considering he has represented both Bengaluru FC and Mohun Baghan who are some of the biggest names in Indian football. It is certainly a far cry from the La Liga or even the European dreams many would have hoped for him.

Considering his injury for almost the entire last season he would be buzzed to even get back onto the pitch. They would be hoping to walk before he runs and maybe fly as he surely has the capability and mindset to be a bloomer at this stage but would be hoping to at least have a little bit of luck. An atmosphere that favors his strengths instead of using him as a one size fits all player. Another thing that had hurt him was the fact that he had proven he was able to cut it in Spain but opted for sure shot game time over taking another shot abroad. Even if it was the lower divisions but maybe he must have had other priorities and has carved out a decent career back home.

For someone who was has been touted as the Indian player with the most potential in FIFA video game franchise ever, Ashique (Lovers) of football have surely been left to feed of flashes or brilliance, hoping everyday that it turns into a full blockbuster. 

Cover Credits - myKhel