By Monojit Mandal
Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis, a seasoned Greek manager and former goalkeeper, opened up in an exclusive interview about the contributions of footballers from Meghalaya to his team and their potential to impact Indian football on a larger scale.
Dilmperis lauded the grit and resilience of Meghalaya players Ricky and Samuel, both of whom he described as “fighters with immense stamina and determination.” Though their time on the field has been limited, the coach expressed confidence in their bright futures.
“Ricky, with his exceptional work ethic and never-give-up attitude, has already proven himself in the few opportunities he’s had. Samuel, on the other hand, is a creative dribbler and a natural scorer who keeps challenging our coaching staff with his consistent performances in the second team,” said Dilmperis.
The coach believes that players like Ricky and Samuel exemplify the unique qualities Northeast footballers bring to Indian football. “They are relentless, disciplined, and passionate. I would absolutely like to have more players like them in my team,” he added.
When asked about the Northeast’s rich football culture, Dilmperis acknowledged the region’s immense talent pool. He emphasized the importance of scouting and nurturing players from across the country, including Meghalaya. “India is a vast and beautiful country with incredible opportunities in football. With the right structure, facilities, and investments, we can elevate the game here,” he said.
Punjab FC has been at the forefront of grassroots development, and the coach is optimistic about the club’s ability to produce future national team players.
“Our academy has many diamonds waiting to be polished. With better coaching, playing conditions, and opportunities, we can transform them into stars,” he remarked.
Reflecting on Indian football’s journey, Dilmperis noted the strides made by the Indian Super League (ISL) in improving match conditions, stadium infrastructure, and marketing. However, he highlighted the need for more teams, games, and investments to match global standards. “India’s football journey is still young, but the potential is immense. If we can emulate the cricket model, we’ll soon have a competitive league on par with the best in the world,” he asserted.
As Punjab FC continues to evolve as a “small but well-organized” team, Dilmperis remains focused on helping young players grow and strengthening the club’s role in Indian football.
For Meghalaya players like Ricky and Samuel, the future at Punjab FC seems promising, paving the way for more talent from the region to shine on the national stage.