In the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) season, one of the emerging talents making waves is Mohammed Sanan of Jamshedpur FC. The 20-year-old signed for Jamshedpur FC ahead of the 2023-24 season on a three-year deal from Reliance Foundation Young Champs and has quickly become a standout player.

Sanan's gradual integration into the team culminated in his first full start in the ISL in November against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, where he not only showcased his skills but also netted his first ISL goal. The Mallapuram-born player has continued to shine under the guidance of current Jamshedpur FC head coach Jamil.

Under Jamil's leadership, Sanan has emerged as a vital player for Jamshedpur FC, playing a crucial part in their journey to the Kalinga Super Cup semi-final. In the tournament, he featured in three games, contributing with a goal and an assist.

During Jamshedpur FC’s comeback victory against Mumbai City FC, Sanan's dynamic play played a pivotal role in securing the win. He contributed an assist as the Men of Steel came out trumps in a five-goal thriller.

The winger caught up with indiansuperleague.com after the game as he spoke about his journey, his debut season and more.

Tell us a bit about your background..

I was a small kid who loved playing football. I did not know anything about football, but when you grow, you understand more about the game. There were trials for RFYC (Reliance Foundation Young Champs) being held in Mumbai. So I travelled from Kerala and got selected and that was the start of my journey. The Indian player I looked up to while growing up was Komal Thatal and he’s here with me right now (at Jamshedpur FC). I'm really blessed.

How would you describe your debut season?

It’s been a good experience so far. I am playing with experienced players and learning a lot. Coach (Khalid Jamil) has also been helping me (learn new things). I'm thankful to God for this.

You spoke about experienced players. What have you got to learn from the likes of Rei Tachikawa and Jeremy Manzorro?

When you play with these kinds of players, you get confidence to keep the ball under pressure. When I see them doing that, I feel like I can do that as well. You learn a lot by just looking at them. They also give us (youngsters) confidence to be in the game and (the belief) that we can make a comeback (in difficult situations) like we did against Mumbai City FC.

How would you describe your experience of working under Khalid Jamil?

Coach Jamil is really supportive. He supports, gives time to all the players and trusts them. I wouldnt say its easy, but it has been good to work with him. Off the pitch, he gives us a lot of confidence and instructs us very well.

Thoughts on the team’s performances this season..

We can beat any team in the league. Even in the Kalinga Super Cup, we reached the semi-finals. We are confident as a team. Also a win against a team like Mumbai City FC gives us confidence moving into the next match and the matches ahead. We want to be in the playoffs.