Akhil Rawat
AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: The 2021-22 season will be Sudeva Delhi FC’s sophomore year in the division. Head coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo was present alongside defender Vanlalzuidika Chhakchhuak at a virtual press conference, speaking about the challenges and joy of featuring an all-Indian squad and prospects for the upcoming season.

“The main objective this season is to develop the players. We want to win games, but our priority will always be to nurture the young talents here. It’s the beauty of Sudeva Delhi FC to give chances to young Indian players and coaches.” “We want to finish as high as possible on the table, and we will be taking one game at a time,” said Wadoo about the upcoming season.

Last season, Sudeva finished in a respectable 8th position in the league. However, with no relegation immunity this season, Coach Wadoo affirmed that there will be extra pressure on the team. “The boys know their responsibilities and are confident. Every player in the team is nearly the same age. They have good bonding and are very ethical in the dressing room.”

One of the challenges for coach Wadoo will be to get the best out of the young players. However, he is proud and excited that this job has fallen on his shoulders. “I’m an Indian coach, and I know Indian football very well. I am very excited to coach this young squad, and we will see what awaits us.”

Being one of the best players to come out of Jammu and Kashmir, Wadoo spoke about the growth of players from the region. “A lot of clubs have nurtured young players in Kashmir. Real Kashmir is the face of the region at the moment. Lots of fans come to watch their matches in Srinagar. People are very passionate about football there.”

Vanlalzuidika Chhakchhuak has joined the Delhi-based side after a good season with Aizawl in 2020-21. “Last year in Aizawl, we had a young team but with foreigners. Here, it’s an all-Indian squad. I’m happy to be here, and I hope we can get a better result than last season,” said Zuidika.

The defender’s career has been on the rise in recent years. After playing in the 2nd Division for Chhinga Veng, he debuted in the I-League with Aizawl last season before securing a move to Sudeva Delhi in the summer. “I’m happy to be in the I-League right now. However, just like every player, it is my dream to play for the Indian national team.” he grinned.

Zuidika expects to form a good partnership in defence with Sairuat Kima. “We are both Mizos and can communicate on the pitch well in our native language.”