Nikhil Prabhu talks about his time with Hyderabad FC ahead of ISL 21-22

The Hyderabad-born defender is looking forward to his debut with the Nizams.

Nikhil Prabhu is a 21-year-old centre-back who currently plays for Hyderabad FC. Beginning at the young age of 19, he's impressed sides at every level thus far with his performances. At the same time, his story is quite an inspirational one too; considering his quick rise through the ranks. As a result, he is an exciting young prospect for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) season.

Speaking of his sporting journey, Nikhil spent his early days in Gujarat before moving to Mumbai for further prospects. There, he played for several clubs and also represented Maharashtra in the Santosh Trophy. During this tenure, he was adjudged "Best Defender" on multiple occasions such as in the MDFA Super Division and the U-17 Maharashtra State Championship.

In 2019, he joined erstwhile Pune City's academy where his brilliance was noted under the then U-18 and present Hyderabad FC assistant coach Mehrajuddin Wadoo. Subsequently, Pune City shifted base to Hyderabad that year, with Nikhil Prabhu continuing to impress with his abilities. Thus, began his Hyderabad FC journey when he captained the reserve side in the Second Division League, after which he was promoted to the first-team in 2020-21.

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The 2021-22 ISL season, therefore, will be his second one as a Hyderabad FC player. Though he's not made his debut for the side yet, he did feature twice on the bench last season under head coach Manolo Marquez. This time, however, it seems all the more likely that he'll be handed his much-awaited start. Especially under coach Marquez, who's known for the development of youth players; as seen with the likes of Akash Mishra and Asish Rai previously. Therefore, it's only a matter of time before we see his entry onto the pitch.

Elaborating on his career with Hyderabad FC, the 21-year-old defender spoke to Khel Now in an exclusive interview earlier this week:

Journey with Hyderabad FC so far

First up, he shared his experience with the Nizams until now - from reserves to promotion to the first-team squad.

"Playing in the ISL was my dream. Before playing for the reserve team, I used to be a ball boy for the tournament. So, I had seen players and it was my dream to play there. As I was promoted to the senior team, I was very happy because I had worked very hard to be there.

I'm working hard and looking forward to my debut. Last year, I had a good experience with centre-back Odei (Onaindia), who's helped me a lot and now I'm turning myself into a better version (working on my improvement)," he stated when asked about his campaign with the Nizams.

On head coach Manuel Roca

Manolo Marquez continues to be Hyderabad FC's head coach this season. Previously, he coached the side to a brilliant fifth-place finish, with 29 points from the 20 games played. This was a remarkable feat considering the side's debut season when they finished last in the standings. As a result, he has the backing of HFC's fans and is expected to deliver similar results this time around as well. Subsequently, several youngsters have blossomed under him throughout his managerial career.

Regarding the 53-year-old's mentorship, he, therefore, stated, "Being under coach Manolo and training under him is a blessing for me. He himself played as a centre-back and has coached good teams in La Liga. This experience has helped me a lot. Whenever I commit mistakes, he helps me and he's turned me into a better version of myself, on and off the field."

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Learnings from Hyderabad FC’s combination of youth and experienced players

Hyderabad FC boast a brilliant combination of youth and seasoned players. This time too, they have youngsters such as Akash Mishra, Asish Rai and Javier Siverio along with veterans such as Bartholomew Ogbeche, Juanan and Edu Garcia. On this note, Nikhil spoke about its collective influence and his learnings from the same.

"Football is a game where you learn new things every day. The senior players help me by sharing their experiences when I make mistakes on the pitch, such as game (style of play) and positioning. Off the field as well, they advise me in terms of food (nutrition) and all (of that)," he said; emphasizing the impact of playing alongside such players, particularly experienced ones.

Areas being worked on

Next up, Nikhil Prabhu spoke about his strengths, weaknesses and how he was collectively working on them to improve as a footballer. Particularly highlighting head coach Marquez's role in this aspect, he said, "Last year, I had many learnings from the coach. I'm working on things that he wants from a centre-back. He has given us many responsibilities and shown me a way of working towards them. I'm working towards this and looking forward to my debut;" thereby highlighting the Spaniard's commitment to his youth players.

On sharing pitch with veteran signings

Hyderabad FC have been extremely active in this transfer window. They made a total of 15 signings, including marquees such as Bartholomew Ogbeche, Edu Garcia and Juanan. They all come in as direct and indirect replacements for the likes of last season's star players like Aridane Santana, Odei Onaindia and the likes.

Speaking about playing alongside them, Nikhil said, "As I mentioned, football is a game where you learn new things every day. Sharing the pitch with veterans is a really good thing as they've played at top levels. This experience shared helps me be a better player every day;" thus, stressing on the kind of players that he's been alongside since the 20-21 ISL season.

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Pre-season friendlies & mood in camp

Further, Nikhil talked about the ongoing pre-season friendlies, the side's training and the mood in their camp ahead of the upcoming ISL season that's set to kick off on November 19. Hyderabad FC play their first fixture on the 23rd against Chennaiyin FC. However, they're currently playing the pre-season friendlies, in which they lost to Mumbai City FC a few days ago.

Talking on this regard, he added, "We're improving every day, pumped up and working hard towards the first game. We are playing many pre-season games. We're looking forward to the first as well as (other) games ahead. We'll be looking to lift the trophy this year."

Predictions for season & message to Hyderabad FC fans

Finally, Nikhil Prabhu wound up the interview with a few predictions and a message to the Hyderabad FC fans anticipating his debut.

"The competition in the league (ISL) is very tough. All the teams have strengthened their teams from last year. We'll go match-by-match and we are hoping to lift the trophy this year. Whenever I get my chance, I'll give my 100% and the effort I put in will be for you. Whenever the team plays, we'll make sure the Hyderabad FC flag goes high," he signed off.

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