#5 Anirudh Thapa
I-league debutants Minerva Punjab FC snapped up the 18-year old midfielder from Chennaiyin FC. Thapa made his ISL debut in Chennaiyin’s last game of the 2016 ISL season, notching up an assist.
Like Jerry Lalrinzuala, the midfielder rose through the ranks of AIFF’s elite academy and was part of the select group that trained with FC Metz. He has captained the AIFF Academy U-19 side and won the U-18 I-League in the 2015-16 season. Thapa has also put in exciting performances as an attacking midfielder at youth level for the Indian national side.
A quick midfielder with an eye for goal, the youngster may see limited game time as he is still developing his game. However, it would be no surprise if Thapa makes an impact if given the opportunity.