Ayush Chhikara Exclusive: Mumbai City FC Youngster’s Rise From Academy Graduate

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Mumbai City FC's 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) campaign has been a mixed bag, marked by both challenges and glimpses of promise. Amidst this turbulent season, young midfielder Ayush Chhikara has emerged as a beacon of hope for the Islanders.

Despite the team's current struggles, including a tenth-place standing in the league table, Chhikara's rise as a confident and capable player has been one of the silver linings. Recovering from an injury, Chhikara is optimistic about returning to the pitch stronger than ever.

Reflecting on his recent achievements, he shared how scoring three goals in the 2024 Super Cup significantly boosted his confidence and earned him praise from coach Petr Kratky. "Scoring on a big stage always gives you confidence. It helped me take my form into the ISL," said the determined midfielder.

The youngster certainly sees every opportunity as a stepping stone. Chhikara's growth within Mumbai City FC has been nothing short of transformative. Since graduating from the club's academy in 2020, he has matured into a vital squad member.

Mumbai City FC are known for fostering young talents and Ayush acknowledged that nurturing environment and high training standards. "I came in as a boy, and now I'm a man," he remarked, emphasizing the club's commitment to developing young players.

Known for his instinctive "fox-in-the-box" playing style, Chhikara models his game on Erling Haaland, studying the Norwegian star's movements and scoring techniques. "I try to learn small details from Haaland and incorporate them into my game," he revealed.

With aspirations to become India's go-to striker, Chhikara is focused on staying ready for opportunities and performing at his peak whenever called upon. While the current season has tested Mumbai City FC's resilience, the club remains hopeful about their young talent's potential to turn the tide.

Chhikara's ultimate dream is to don the number 9 jersey for the Indian national team while consistently delivering for his club. "My biggest goal is to play for the Indian football team and score as many goals as possible for Mumbai City FC," he said.