Only the most ardent followers of Indian football would have heard of Irfan Yadwad before this season. After playing a bench role for Chennaiyin FC, he is now an integral part of Owen Coyle’s set-up.
Characterized by his stubborn nature, often an asset for a footballer, he has been a guiding light for Chennaiyin on the flanks, with one goal and two assists in 10 appearances. However, statistics should not be the only indicator for judging Yadwad production.
His burst of form earned Yadwad a call-up to the national team, and he almost had a dream domestic debut, coming close to scoring for India in their international friendly against Malaysia.
Sports stars caught up with the striker, who spoke about his early days in football and why he considered giving up the sport at one point in his life.
What do you think of the season? How has it been going so far for you and how is it different from before?
For me it has been a great season so far. We played nine matches and I started them all. It’s very important for me because last season was my first and I didn’t have much time to play. However, this time I start every match, trying to do better every day and helping the team move up the standings.
You were a relatively unknown face in the ISL last season. Now the spotlight is on you. How did this change go for you?
I learn something new in every training session and analyze how I played in every match. Last season I played on average between 15 and 20 minutes of play, but even that was important to me. Hard work is everything to me, and having coach constantly talk to me one-on-one has helped. He promised me that I would get my chance if I worked hard.
Last season you only managed one goal. This season you have already improved your stats. What was the main point of difference? Is it just your confidence level, or did you need time to adapt to the higher level?
No, it’s a question of trust. I knew I was missing easy chances in every game. I was getting into good scoring positions, which pleased the coach, but the finish wasn’t happening. The coach told me not to worry and advised me that if I found myself in good positions regularly, the goals would come.
Coming from a football-rich place like Goa, talk about your early days as a football player. Have you always wanted to practice this sport or were you pushed to start professionally by a member of your family or those close to you?
My journey has been difficult. I have always been very passionate about football. My father was a footballer, but he only played in local tournaments. I remember going to watch every one of his matches.
I started in 2018-19 with Sporting Club De Goa and stayed there for two years. Then I played for Panjim Footballers. This time, I had a big setback because I was injured: I had a tear in my meniscus. I haven’t played for almost three months.
His burst of form earned Yadwad a call-up to the national team, and he almost had a dream domestic debut, coming close to scoring for India in their international friendly against Malaysia. | Photo credit: CFC Media
His burst of form earned Yadwad a call-up to the national team, and he almost had a dream domestic debut, coming close to scoring for India in their international friendly against Malaysia. | Photo credit: CFC Media
There was a time when I decided not to play football anymore. My mother also told me that I didn’t need to play because she saw how much pain I was in and the difficulties I was facing. But my father never wanted me to stop playing and convinced my mother that I should continue. He was convinced that I had a future in football. Seeing him support me so much, I knew I had to do something for my family.
I didn’t look back from there. I recovered and then went for trials at Bengaluru United. I must have done something right because they liked my football. Even though times were difficult, the desire to do something for my family motivated me enough.
For me, family is everything. I never had support from my cousins or relatives, only from my family: my brothers, my mother and my father. Whatever I am today, it’s because of them. I don’t want anything for myself. I want to give them a good life.
We’ve seen you play in different positions in the attacking line – sometimes as a second striker with Jordan Gil and also as a winger, mainly on the left. Do you have a preference in terms of playing position?
No, I don’t really have a preference. Last season, when I arrived, I played as a striker. I didn’t have much time. That changed this season. Having a good bond with the coach helps because he talks a lot about my style of play. He told me that I didn’t need to limit myself to playing as a winger or striker. When I don’t have the ball, I have a free role, which helps me play better.
Losing 0-1 to Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their last clash, Irfan and his Chennaiyin team will be hoping to bounce back stronger. | Photo credit: CFC Media
Losing 0-1 to Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their last clash, Irfan and his Chennaiyin team will be hoping to bounce back stronger. | Photo credit: CFC Media
Coming to one of the most important events of your life, how did you react to the announcement of your integration into the national team? Did you know you were going to get a call, or was it a complete surprise?
Like everyone, it’s a dream to play for the national team and I was happy to have received this call. As soon as I saw my name, I called my mother. She was delighted. I know my family wants to see me play more for India. I know there are so many places I can improve, but I also know there is no set striker in the Indian team. I am aware of my abilities and that is important to me.
Were you more excited or nervous when you realized you were starting against Malaysia?
I was nervous, but it was very natural. I also spoke with coach Manolo (Marquez). He said it was normal to be a little nervous before the match, but that I had to be completely focused once I got on the field. I received a lot of help from my teammates. Farukh (Choudhary) bhai was also there. He supported me and guided me every minute.
After two away matches, Chennaiyin will play a home clash against East Bengal, who registered their first win of the season with a 1-0 win over NorthEast United FC. Losing 0-1 to Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their last clash, Irfan and his Chennaiyin team will be hoping to bounce back stronger.
