Football

In India, my idol is Sunil Chhetri: NorthEast United FC’s Jithin MS

NorthEast United FC’s Jithin MS has revealed that his idol is Sunil Chhetri. Jithin MS joined the Highlanders in August 2022 and since then he has been rising through the ranks. 

The Winger said he was a bit nervous when he joined the club, two years ago but got confidence under his belt after getting the backing of coaches and support staff.

“In my first season, I was nervous. But with support from the coach and teammates, I got comfortable,” he said in an interview with Khel Now.

Meanwhile, the 26-year-old was the standout performer in the Durand Cup as he scored four goals and three assists in six matches. Ergo, he played an instrumental role in taking the team to glory in the oldest football tournament in Asia.

“This has been one of the best campaigns I’ve ever had. My hard work and the coach’s guidance helped me achieve the Golden Ball.”

In the final of the Durand Cup against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Jithin provided the assist for the opening goal. Jithin showered praise on head coach Juan Pedro Benali for encouraging the players in the summit clash.

“The coach’s talk was positive. He encouraged me to keep delivering and keep running for the full 90 minutes,” Jithin recalled about the halftime pep talk.

Meanwhile, Jithin MS was named in the 26-man probable squad for the international friendly against Malaysia by head coach Manolo Marquez and he said it is a step towards his dream.

He expressed his readiness: “I’m focused on training and our matches. One day, the time will come.”

He also highlighted the club’s camaraderie and friendship: “My roommates, Mirshad Michu and Mayakkannan Muthu, and teammates like Ali (Bemammer) and Hamza (Regragui), have all helped me.” he said.

He also highlighted Alaeddine Ajaraie’s humour and said, “He joined recently and has everyone laughing.”

The 26-year-old revealed he admires former Brazil talisman Ronaldinho and Sunil Chhetri in India.

“I admired Ronaldinho a lot. In India, my idol is Sunil Chhetri. Last time, in Bhubaneswar, I trained with him in the national camp. He even gifted me a pair of football boots, and from that day onward, I have worn them for every game.”

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

India Falls to Chile in Shootout After 2–2 Draw at Four Nations Junior Women’s Hockey Tournament

The Indian junior women’s hockey team suffered a narrow defeat against Chile in a tense… Read More

May 30, 2025

Shreyas Iyer’s Misjudged Aggression Costs Punjab Kings in Qualifier Blowout

Punjab Kings’ journey to the IPL 2025 final suffered a massive blow after a disappointing… Read More

May 30, 2025

Harry Maguire Hopes to See Indian Talent in Premier League, Backs Grassroots Football Initiatives

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has expressed optimism about the future of Indian football, stating… Read More

May 30, 2025

Salt’s blazing fifty helps RCB crush PBKS in record-breaking playoff win

Nine years after their last appearance in an IPL final, Royal Challengers Bengaluru became the… Read More

May 30, 2025

Josh Hazlewood opens up on playing in IPL before WTC Final, says he is got to be bowling

Royal Challengers Bengaluru fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has said playing in the IPL is not… Read More

May 30, 2025