India's football future: The journey of Mohammed Aimen

A Rising Star in Indian Football

Despite the current challenges facing Indian football, with uncertainty surrounding the top-flight league, one young star has already captured the attention of fans across the country. Mohammed Aimen, a product of the Kerala Blasters academy, made a name for himself during the AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers. His Joga Bonito-style performance against Brunei was nothing short of spectacular, as he scored two goals that will be remembered for years to come. This impressive display earned him a spot in the Indian senior team for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers in Singapore.

Aimen's journey began when he came off the bench in the match against Brunei. The situation was dire for India, and the team needed a big win. Although his initial attempts were not successful, he remained determined and eventually found the back of the net twice. These goals were not just significant for the team but also for the sport in the country, showcasing the potential of young talent. Despite the disappointment of not advancing past the group stages, Aimen expressed pride in representing his country at any level.

"It's always a proud moment to wear the national jersey. To score two goals also. I was so proud and happy, and even my family too. The only sad part was we didn't qualify. It came down to goal difference. But overall it was a good performance from my teammates as well. We gave everything on the field, so I'm really happy about the performance and the goals," Aimen shared in an exclusive interview.

His first goal against Brunei quickly gained attention online, with many commenting on its brilliance. Aimen credits his fearless style to his idol, Neymar. "Even from a young age, I've always tried to do a bit of showboating, going one-v-one, going inside, going outside, crossing, shooting. That's my game." He added that his coach encouraged him to take more shots and go one-on-one, which led to the viral goal.

A Unique Journey to Professional Football

Aimen's path to professional football was not what many might expect. Initially, he and his twin brother Azhar played cricket, drawn to the IPL craze. However, their interest shifted after attending the SH Football Academy, where they were selected for the Kerala Blasters FC Football School. From there, they progressed through the ranks, eventually making it to the senior team.

Family support was crucial in their development. "They were always supportive. It actually started from my father's side. We didn't even say we wanted to join an academy. One day he said, 'We're going to watch a match,' and then he told us we were joining that academy. It was all his idea from the start."

A key moment in Aimen's career was a three-week training stint with Rakow Czestochowa, a leading Polish club. The experience exposed him to the high level of European football, which he described as a significant difference. "European football is at another level — the speed, the facilities, everything. It helped a lot for me and my brother. After that we got called up to the senior team."

Ambitions and Future Goals

Looking ahead, Aimen is focused on contributing consistently for the Kerala Blasters in the next Indian Super League season. "To score more goals, give more assists — inshallah. As a winger, I need to do that. And of course, some dribbling and showboating as well." While some coaches discourage flair, Aimen remains passionate about his style, inspired by Neymar.

"I still try to do it sometimes because I love it — I love Neymar a lot. I've watched thousands of his clips from a young age, and he's my idol. I try to imitate small things he does."

Although the senior squad announcement had not yet been made at the time of the interview, Aimen is not putting pressure on himself. "I'm not putting pressure on myself about that. I just want to give my best on the field. If I score more goals and play well, they will call me up. If I keep thinking 'I must make the senior team,' it will affect my game. So I'll just focus on doing well, and the call-up will come naturally."

Aimen's ambition is clear: "A dribbler and a scorer — that's my style. I won't change much. I want to be the kind of player who goes one-v-one, does some showboating, scores goals, and gives assists."

Inspiration from the Senior Team

The recent success of the Indian senior team at the AFC Asian Cup has further motivated Aimen. "Yeah — we beat Oman and finished third. It's a big thing because before that everyone was criticising the team, saying they were bad. But nobody sees the hard work and tough training behind it. It really motivates me to push for that level someday."

With a senior team call-up now confirmed and a fearless attacking style, Mohammed Aimen is proving that India's future in football could be brighter than many expect.