Manisha Kalyan attracts interest from clubs in Spain, Australia, US

Manisha Kalyan was hardly known beyond the Indian football community, but a spate of impressive performances, including a historic goal against Brazil, has got her instant attention. In November last year, the 19-year-old winger became the first Indian to score against any senior national Brazil team. She was already the first woman to score in Asian club competitions for Gokulam Kerala FC, and as her five goals against Odisha Police in their Indian Women’s League (IWL) opener on Saturday showed, she is only just beginning to fire.

Her dazzling runs on the left flank has got several clubs tracking her performances and, according to sources, she is now marked to ply her trade outside the country. “There is lot of interest from clubs in Spain, Australia, United States and other parts of Europe,” said Anuj Kichlu, representative of the Madrid-based BOY player agency which took Bala Devi to Rangers FC in Scotland. “I have no doubt Manisha will play abroad sooner rather than later.

Clubs are tracking her and it’s only a matter of time before she makes the move.” Manisha is aware of the interest that her recent performances has generated and is gearing to grab the opportunity. The winger is contracted with Gokulam Kerala till the conclusion of IWL and will pursue her foreign ambitions after the conclusion of the league. Gokulam Kerala are the defending champions and look good for another title.

“I am obviously thrilled with the interest. It’s a big opportunity for me. It’s been my dream to play for a big club, train with high-quality players and then bring share this experience back home with Indian players,” said Manisha.