I want to be a regular in the Mumbai City FC side: Forward Ayush Chhikara
The Mumbai City FC forward reflects on his journey with the Islanders, his recovery from injury, and his aspirations to make a meaningful contribution to the team's success this season.
Mumbai City FC's young striker, Ayush Chhikara, is focused on both personal and team success as he works his way back to full fitness during the ongoing 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) season.
The 22-year-old from Haryana made a name for himself with three goals in the Kalinga Super Cup last season and is eager to make an impact for the Islanders in the league.
Chhikara, who suffered a knee injury in March, is currently in the recovery process but remains determined to make a strong comeback and elevate his game to the next level.
“I don't take pressure from outside, I don't see expectations from others. I just expect things from myself. There are some expectations I have for myself. I want to play for the national team. I want to be a regular in the Mumbai City FC side. I want to score goals for the club. Those are my goals and those are the expectations I have for myself. So, I try to push myself to reach them," Chhikara said in an interview with IANS.
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Chhikara also praised head coach Petr Kratky for his continuous support throughout his recovery and shared how the coach is always there for the young players, offering guidance and encouragement.
"During my low times, he (Kratky) took up to me. He never made me feel like I was not part of the squad. So, that really mattered a lot and his support is always there for the youngsters, which will really help me and all the other players to grow under him,” he said.
When discussing his recovery and the potential to make an immediate impact upon his return, Chhikara emphasized his focus on thorough preparation and consistent effort, believing that the hard work put in during this phase will pay off in the long run.
"I'm just focused and training well. I know I'll give my best whenever the coach gives me a chance. I don't put pressure on myself in terms of having to try and do this or do that. I want to give my hundred per cent, and the results will follow. I believe that," the forward stated.
Despite Mumbai City FC's slow start to the season, currently sitting eighth in the league with ten points from seven matches, Chhikara is optimistic about the team's progress and believes they will bounce back strongly after the international break next week.
"We didn't start too well per the expectations but now we are slowly picking up some form in the season and that's what matters. It's a whole new set of players this season, so it will take time to gel together. However, recently in the past few matches, we are doing good and we are slowly picking up the form and we'll want this form to continue after the break," he commented.
The Islanders will next face Punjab FC on November 26 at the Mumbai Football Arena and will be eager to secure back-to-back wins at home.
