The FIFA U-17 World Cup is a platform where an upcoming youngster can showcase their talent and make sure scouts, head coach and teams notices. It’s their chance to prove that they have that something special to play for major clubs in the world. The likes of Neymar, Toni Kross, Xavi used the tournament to kick-start their career.
Similarly, one of the biggest clubs in the football, Manchester United are believed to be keeping tabs on India’s attacking midfielder Komal Thatal. The scouts from the most successful Premier League will be watching the young gun throughout the tournament and if things go will then Komal Thatal can soon be heading to England to train at Manchester United’s famous academy.
The boy from Sikkim is one of the key players for India; it’s safe to say that the team would be counting on him to provide some magic. Thatal came into limelight when he scored a brilliant solo goal for the Indian U-17 side against Brazil U-17 at the BRICS Cup back in October 2016.
Thatal who has been attracting a lot of European interest in the past few months is known for his goal-scoring and quick feet. He has confidence in his abilities and has been playing for the junior national side for the last three years.
It an opportunity for everyone in the Indian squad to show what they are capable, not just Komal but if he indeed gets the opportunity, he should grab it with both hands, joining an academy of Manchester United caliber, who is known for developing biggest talents in the world will only act as a catalyst to his growth as a footballer.
Off the field, Komal comes from a very humble background as his parents are tailors in the small Tinburbung Village in West Sikkim. Like many in the team, he has come a long way, a journey filled with difficulties but he is here now and ready to represent his country on the biggest stage.