Gyamar Nikum on his journey from Arunachal Pradesh to Mumbai City FC, aspirations for National Team, impact in ISL & more
The rising star from Arunachal Pradesh has been making waves in Indian Football.
Gyamar Nikum, Mumbai City FC player from Takey (Nyapin), a village in the Kurung Kumey district of Arunachal Pradesh, has already set an example with his football talent in Indian football.
On April 17th, All India Football Federation (AIFF) awarded the youngster from Arunachal Pradesh, the title of Best Emerging Player of I-League 2023-24. Nikum played the previous season of the I League with Inter Kashi on loan from the Islanders.
In an exclusive interview with Khel Now, Gyamar Nikum shared his football journey.
Journey with Inter Kashi
After a record transfer from Rajasthan United to Mumbai City FC, the 19-year-old was sent to Inter Kashi, a Varanasi-based I-League outfit, on a one-year loan for development. He debuted in the league for Inter Kashi, against Gokulam Kerala FC, and scored his first goal against Churchill Brothers in the 87th minute. This crucial goal helped his team secure a second consecutive victory in the league.
For Inter Kashi, under the mentorship of Carlos Santamarina, Nikum appeared in 22 games, scoring four goals and providing four assists during the season of India’s second-tier football league. Reflecting on his journey with Inter Kashi, Nikum said, “The journey was absolutely memorable. It wasn’t easy initially as I was coming on loan from Mumbai City, and all the teammates were new. But gradually, we all bonded well and started doing well.”
Elaborating on his learning at the club, he shared, “The coaching staff helped me a lot, and it was reflected on the ground as well. I was pretty pleased with my performance, and it was a pleasure to combine with the likes of Edmund, Kojam, and all.”
“In the end, I think Inter Kashi and its professional setup contributed a lot to my development,” he added.
An interesting fact about Nikum’s time at Inter Kashi is that whenever he scored or provided an assist for the club in the I-League 2023-24, the team never lost.
Back to Mumbai City FC
After a remarkable I-League season, Nikum returned to his parent club, the Islanders. He was not part of the team’s Durand Cup squad but went to Thailand for training with his senior teammates.
Sharing his experience in the country, Nikum said, “Thailand is a nice place. They have good facilities, and it was a chance for us to test ourselves against the local teams. Personally, it was my first interaction with coach Petr Kratky. He is someone who believes in youth and gives fair chances. I hope my performance in Thailand earns his trust.”
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Expectations with the Islanders
Mumbai City FC have struggled in the first three matches of the Indian Super League, having drawn two and lost one. However, Nikum is also waiting for his chance to get into the squad.
When asked about his expectations with the Islanders, Nikum answered, “I am still young and trying to learn and grow. I would love to contribute to Mumbai City, but at the same time, I know I will have to be patient as it’s one of the best clubs in ISL.”
“I am giving my 100% in training. If and whenever I get an opportunity, I will try to prove myself. I have high hopes because the club promised me development when I joined from Rajasthan United,” he added.
Expectations from ISL 2024-25
Nikum made his Indian Super League debut on 19th February 2023 against East Bengal FC. He replaced left-back Vignesh Dakshinamurthy in the 83rd minute of the match. However, this is the only match Nikum has played in the ISL so far.
Addressing a question related to his expectations for this season of the ISL, Nikum said, “As a team, we always want to be Shield and Cup champions. We have got a star-studded team, so all we want is success. Personally, I would love to contribute my part in it.”
Difference between ISL and I-League
The young football star shared his opinion about the differences between ISL and I-League. He stated, “I think ISL is a little tactically superior to I-League. The conditions surrounding I-League are a bit different, considering the 2:30 pm kick-offs. Quality-wise, of course, there is a difference, but I think the stark difference is in terms of professionalism and facilities.”
Playing for the National Team
Nikum mentioned that he is focused on this season and expressed confidence in achieving his dream of playing for the Indian National Team, saying, “I am focused on the season. Playing for the national team is a dream, and I am confident it will happen sooner or later.”
The Golden Boy from Arunachal
Gyamar Nikum is the first player from Arunachal Pradesh to compete in both of the nation’s top leagues, ISL and I-League. The state has a large number of football enthusiasts, but only a few footballers have succeeded in reaching the national level, including Gumpe Rime, Nyamar Loyi, and Techi Tatra.
Nikum has become an inspiration to young footballers from the Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains. Expressing this, Nikum stated, “My hometown, Arunachal, is the closest thing to my heart. I always try to encourage my friends and my juniors to take up football as a profession.”
“The passion and love for football in Arunachal Pradesh are immense. We saw during the Santosh Trophy how many fans came out to watch the matches, even when Arunachal wasn’t playing,” he added.
Gyamar Nikum expressed his wish to see many more youngsters from Arunachal playing in the top football leagues of the nation. “I will always do my bit to help them,” he concluded the interview.
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