Mumbai, India – In the quiet embrace of a small Indian village, where dreams are often whispered against the backdrop of simplicity, emerged a football prodigy destined for greatness.
Meet Manisha Kalyan, the young Indian football sensation whose long journey from the narrow lanes of Muggowal in Punjab to the illustrious stage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League is nothing short of a remarkable odyssey.
Prior to football winning her heart, Kalyan was active in basketball and athletics during her school years. Daring to dream beyond the confines of her rural beginnings, she made the cut for India in 2019, at the age of 17.
Kalyan was given the fantastic chance to sign with the Greek club Apollon Ladies last year. A rare chance for Indian footballers, given the country’s ranking of 65 in women’s FIFA rankings and 102 in men’s.
“I made the right decision to join Apollon because I am improving and learning new things here,” Kalyan
“Even before I was called up for India, I dreamt of playing abroad because when you begin playing abroad at an early age, you can improve and contribute more to the national team.”
Kalyan signed for Apollon after playing for three Indian clubs, including Gokulam Kerala, with whom she won the top-tier Indian Women’s League twice.
Known for her speed and ability to adapt to several positions, Kalyan has been recognised as one of the best Indian players in recent times.
