Punjab FC wonderkid Muhammad Suhail on his football journey from Kerala, ISL debut, aspirations & more

The 18-year-old has impressed for the Shers this term.

18-year-old Muhammad Suhail, born in Palakkad (Kerala) who has previously impressed in the RFDL 2023-24, earning the prestigious Golden Ball as the league’s best player and in the Next Generation Cup 2024, made his ISL debut against Mohun Bagan on 26 December 2024, coming on as a substitute in the 86th minute for Punjab FC.

Since then, the winger has gone on to make a few more sub-appearances for the Shers in the league. Suhail grabbed headlines when he started the following league match against Kerala Blasters on 5th January 2025. Suhail is a part of the good batch of youngsters breaking through at the club including centre-half Paramveer and full-back Tekcham Abhishek Singh.

The forward has been a consistent feature in the team ever since making his debut and has impressed with his dribbling ability, vision and weight of final pass, featuring on both wings when needed. Suhail has stayed true to his core strengths during the transition from youth to professional football.

Nihal Sudheesh (on loan at the club from Kerala Blasters), could leave the club at the end of this season and Muhammad Suhail has the chance to become a mainstay at the club heading into next term. The young forward sat down with Khel Now for an exclusive interview, here is the full transcript of the interaction.

Footballing journey and transition to forward line

“I started watching my brother play football at a young age, and that’s how I got attracted to the sport. I first joined a local team, Marhaba, in my hometown. When I was 12, I attended Punjab FC trials in Coimbatore and got selected. Initially, I played as a centre-back, but my coach later shifted me to a striker in the U13s, where I played for three years. When the RFDL (Reliance Foundation Development League) started, I was asked to play as a winger, and it just stuck with me ever since.”

Favourite player and inspiration

“Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar have always been my biggest inspirations,” said Muhammad Suhail.

Favourite Indian footballer

“Sunil Chhetri. His longevity and professionalism are truly inspiring. To perform at such a high level for so many years is incredible. His goal-scoring record for the national team is something I would love to be a part of one day.”

RFDL and PL Next Gen experience

“It was a turning point in my career. Playing against such competitive teams and winning games helped me understand my full potential. The matches in the UK, in particular, were a huge confidence boost because I realized I could compete against physically stronger opponents.”

Transition from youth to professional football

“It’s been a dream of mine for a long time, and now that it has happened, I want to keep pushing and fighting for my place in the team. I know the competition is tough, but I’m determined to give my 100% every day.”

ISL Debut

“I was overjoyed. It had always been a dream of mine to make my ISL debut, and I’m really grateful to the coach for believing in me and making it happen.”

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Share the pitch with experienced players like Juanma, Mrzljak, Suljic and Majcen

“It’s a great learning experience. They’ve been really helpful in my transition to senior football. One of the biggest takeaways for me has been their professionalism. Luka’s mentality, in particular, is something I admire a lot and want to learn from.”

Equation with fellow teammates Leon and Nihal

“I share a great connection with both of them. They’ve been really supportive, helping me understand my mistakes and explaining in more detail what the coach expects from me. They always make sure I feel comfortable in the senior camp, which has helped me settle in well.”

Expectations from manager Panagiotis Dilberis

“He always encourages me to dribble and take on opponents. He constantly pushes me to improve and gives me the confidence to compete against senior players. At the same time, he doesn’t hesitate to correct me when I make mistakes, which helps me grow as a player.”

Staying consistent at a young age

“I’m really happy, and it has given me a lot more confidence in my abilities. It’s a testament to what I know I’m capable of doing, and I’m grateful for the opportunity. Now, I just want to keep improving and hopefully score my first goal soon.”

Goals for the rest of the season

“I want to keep playing consistently and contribute as much as I can to the team’s success. Scoring a couple of goals would be great, and ultimately, I just want to help the team get the best possible results.”

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