Mumbai City FC forward Vikram Partap Singh's knack for finding the net has never been doubted. Hailing from Punjab, his talent shone brightly while representing India's youth teams and I-League side Indian Arrows FC.

Despite occasional goals for Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) in past seasons, doubts lingered over Singh's consistency. Yet, in the 2023-24 season, he silenced all skeptics. Awarded the ISL Emerging Player of the League, Singh excelled, playing a pivotal role in Mumbai City FC’s journey to the ISL Cup final victory and a close pursuit of the Shield.

With eight goals this season, Singh not only witnessed his best-ever season but also bettered his tally from the previous three seasons with Mumbai City FC, where he netted five times. Moreover, he provided four assists, joining the ranks of Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s Manvir Singh and Mumbai City FC teammate Lallianzuala Chhangte among Indian attackers with 10 or more goal contributions in the league.

Dealing with father’s loss and making a mark

While Singh showcased his goal-scoring prowess under former head coach Des Buckingham, he struggled to secure a spot in the starting lineup earlier on in the season. Even with Buckingham at the helm, Singh didn't feature regularly in the starting eleven before the Englishman departed the club in December.

However, everything changed with the arrival of Petr Kratky. Under the new coach's guidance, Singh found renewed confidence, as Kratky prioritised giving young players more playing time and opportunities based on merit regardless of age and nationalities. Singh's performance flourished following Kratky's appointment in December, as he excelled both as a centre-forward and a winger. Notably, all of his goals this season came under Kratky.

The highlight of Singh's season was his hat-trick against NorthEast United FC, making him the second-youngest hat-trick scorer in the league after Mohun Bagan SG’s Kiyan Nassiri.

Despite missing the League Shield decider against Mohun Bagan SG due to suspension, the 22-year-old made significant contributions in the semi-final against FC Goa. He scored in the away leg and provided an assist in the return leg, where the Islanders secured a 5-2 aggregate victory.

Despite facing personal adversity, including the loss of his father in January, Singh displayed remarkable resolve and mental strength to bring out the best in him.

“Every goal that I scored (before) were for him. He’s not here now, but I know he’s watching me from above,” Singh earlier told the indiansuperleague.com in February.

With Singh clinching the Emerging Player of the League award and helping Mumbai City FC secure the ISL Cup in a memorable season, his late father would undoubtedly be filled with pride.