Hyderabad FC co-owner Varun Tripuraneni addressed the club's areas of focus in the future, with developing a core of Indian players on the top of the list. The club is not only stressing on home-grown prospects, but also nurturing players brought in from other clubs as well.

From finishing rock-bottom to claiming silverware - Hyderabad FC have been through the extremes within a span of three years since its inception. Under the adept supervision of Spanish tactician Manuel Marquez, the side defeated Kerala Blasters FC in the summit clash via penalties to clinch the coveted Hero ISL 2021-22 trophy.

Adding more credibility to their success were a bunch of youngsters that punched above their weight who were backed heavily by their coach. Record books cannot deny the gargantuan contributions by star striker Bartholomew Ogbeche and midfield machine Joao Victor, but the supporting act by young Indian players was equally important.

Hyderabad FC has become synonymous with fostering raw talent in the last two years, and the team eventually reaped dividends in the Hero ISL 2021-22. The recent success would not have been possible without the heroics of Aniket Jadhav, Akash Mishra, Asish Rai, Rohit Danu, and Chinglensana Singh. The club is now determined to carry the legacy forward.

“Going forward, our philosophy will be focused on building and developing a core of Indian players. It’ll be a mix of bringing in young players from other clubs and developing players through our own grassroots system. At times, we’ll be forced to release some players and look at the transfer options, but the key is to have a good supply line in place,” said Varun Tripuraneni, during an interview with Sportskeeda.

While Akash Mishra, Chinglensana Singh, and Asish Rai had already bloomed in the previous season, they just stepped up the pedal in the Hero ISL 2021-22. Liston Colaco, also part of the exciting bunch, was roped in by ATK Mohun Bagan ahead of the season. However, the void failed to dent their title aspirations.

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“I’m really happy for the players from our team who got a break last season like Akash, Sana, and Asish. I’m extremely happy that they were able to maintain their consistency. We’ve seen many youngsters perform well in their debut ISL season, but to replicate that next season is a real test. Now they have a lot of experience under their belts,” added the Hyderabad FC co-owner.

With months left before the new season approaches, Hyderabad FC are aiming to participate in a few tournaments mid-season, to keep the flame burning. The Durand Cup and Super Cup will provide the players more game time, which is equally essential for further growth.

“We have to play the Durand Cup and the Super Cup this year, so it’s going to be a long season. It’s important that there are more games in the calendar year. It’s important for the players and also for the national team. Every club should take competitions like the Durand Cup and the Super Cup seriously,” stated Tripuraneni.