Who is Moirangthem Thoiba Singh? Indian football team's new call-up

Thoiba Singh is the youngest Indian goal-scorer at the AFC Cup.

The Indian national football team under the new leadership of Manolo Marquez have faced an uphill battle so far, with the Blue Tigers yet to secure a victory in his tenure. Known for his bold decisions and a keen eye on emerging talent, Marquez has not shied away from introducing fresh faces from the Indian Super League.

His preference for younger players over veterans has added an intriguing dimension to his squad selections. As Marquez continues to build a future-focused team, he has now turned his attention to Odisha FC’s promising midfielder, Thoiba Singh, who has been called to the national team camp for their upcoming friendly fixture against Malaysia in Hyderabad. This opportunity arises as a replacement for the injured Anirudh Thapa.

🚨Indian national team update 🚨Due to injuries, midfielder Anirudh Thapa & forward Vikram Partap Singh will not join the National Team camp for Malaysia match.Thoiba Singh will replace the former. The camp begins today in Hyderabad.#indianfootball #ISL #football pic.twitter.com/rxHloALnd1

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) November 11, 2024

Thoiba Singh’s early journey and rise in Indian Football

Born on December 12, 2002, in Moirang, Manipur, Thoiba Singh’s journey into football began at the AMOFA Academy, where he showcased an exceptional blend of stamina, resilience, and a keen understanding of the game. His professional debut came with Minerva Punjab in the I-League in 2018, making him the youngest player to feature in the Indian football league system at just 15.

His impact was immediate, and a year later, he made history as the youngest-ever goalscorer in the AFC Cup, netting a crucial goal for Minerva Punjab against Manang Marshyangdi at the age of 16. This feat set him apart as a player with remarkable potential and maturity beyond his years.

Professional Career with Odisha FC

Since joining Odisha FC in 2020, Thoiba has established himself as a versatile and reliable defensive midfielder, known for his agility, defensive acumen, and tireless work rate. Primarily deployed in defensive midfield, he has also shown adaptability by taking on roles at right-back and left midfield when needed.

Despite being a defensive-oriented player, he has shown glimpses of offensive potential, notably scoring in Odisha’s AFC Cup campaign. Thoiba’s growth in the ISL has been steady, with consistent performances that emphasize his ball-winning ability, precise tackling, and a penchant for initiating counter-attacks.

Playing Style and Strengths

Standing at 5 feet 7 inches, Thoiba might not have a physically imposing frame, but his technical skills, positioning, and spatial awareness compensate effectively. His style is characterized by an aggressive approach to ball recovery, coupled with an impressive reading of the game, which allows him to anticipate and intercept opponent moves.

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Thoiba’s high energy and mobility make him a dynamic presence on the field, seamlessly transitioning between defense and attack. His experience as a right-back has also added versatility to his play, enabling him to support wide areas and stretch play when necessary.

As a young player, Thoiba’s composure and discipline are commendable. While his offensive stats may not stand out, his contributions lie in his ability to stabilize the midfield and break up play. These qualities are highly valued by coaches focused on a possession-based and counter-attacking style.

Future Potential

As Thoiba steps into the national camp under Manolo Marquez, he has the potential to bring a refreshing depth to India’s midfield. His growth trajectory suggests he could evolve into a crucial asset for the national team, particularly in high-stakes matches that demand defensive discipline and quick transitions.

His exposure to different roles at Odisha and his steady development in the ISL make him a well-rounded player who could thrive in various tactical systems. With the opportunity to play under Marquez’s guidance, Thoiba Singh has the platform to sharpen his skill set further and potentially cement his place in the national team.

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