Player profile of the week: Arnab Mondal

People label him as the best Indian stopper in India at present. With his stabbing tackles, interceptions, and composure, Prayag United SC defender Arnab Mondal stays highly rated by all Coaches across the country.

His talent just couldn’t be overlooked for long and National Coach Savio Medeira named him in his list of 30 Probables for the forthcoming AFC Challenge Cup Camp.

“I’m extremely happy in getting the call. It’s a great feeling to be called for National Duty. But at the same time, it’s a call to be a part of the Camp. I need to perform well and stay fit if I want a selection in the final list of 23,” he said.

Arnab started playing football at 8 and turned professional at 17. He got his first break with Mohammedan Sporting and currently plays with Prayag United SC.

He first caught the eye while representing India in the Olympic Qualifiers. The away-match against Qatar at the Al Sadd and the Home match at the Balewadi Sports Complex, Pune added to his confidence. His performance in the two matches earned high praise from all including the then Indian U-23 Coach Desmond Bulpin. “Keep an eye on this guy. He is one who will supersede all,” Bulpin had commented after the Pune match.

Rio Ferdinand and Mahesh Gawli stay his favourite players. “I just cannot stay away from the game. It’s my life. I’ll die if anyone takes away football from me,” he opines.

Name: Arnab Mondal

Year of Birth: 25 Sep 1989-2012

Place of Birth: Kolkata, West Bengal

Position: Defender

Team Played for: Mohammedan Sporting, Prayag United SC (Present)