Thapa spoke exclusively to Sportskeeda about the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, his playing journey, and the role of AIFF Academy in his career. He also spoke about his playing time in the U-17 World Cups, ISL and I-League. Excerpts from Part 1 of the Interview:

The Coronavirus lockdown has suspended Indian football activities since March 2020. With over six months with no football action, players have been devoid of playing time and fitness. However, home workouts have come as a rescue for the footballers. When asked about the overall impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic on players, Anirudh Thapa said:

The beginning of Anirudh Thapa’s journey

The 22-year old midfielder started playing football from his school days in St. Joseph’s in Dehradun. Thapa then moved to St. Stephen’s in Chandigarh for better playing opportunities before breaking into the AIFF Elite Academy programme. Taking us down the memory lane, he said:

After being scouted by the AIFF Elite Academy programme from the St. Stephen’s Academy in Chandigarh, there has been no looking back for Anirudh Thapa. He moved from the U-14 to U-19 in the Federation’s Flagship youth programme. Speaking on the importance of the Elite Academy in moulding him as player over the years. He said:

Thapa joined the National Team Setup in the U14 squad. He then went on to play the SAFF U-16 Championship and AFC U-16 Championship qualifiers in 2013. He also went on to represent India in the SAFF U-19 Championship. Thapa talked about the importance of playing for the youth teams of India as part of his tenure with the AIFF Elite Academy. He emphasised on the endeavours and competition at the youth level for a player:

A taste of European football for Thapa

Anirudh Thapa was part of the 5-member team which went to Ligue 1 side FC Metz on a 3-month training stint. He was with Prosenjit Chakraborty, Jerry Lalrinzuala, Baoringdao Bodo and Bedashwor Singh at the French Club. Speaking on the cultural and sporting difference between Indian and European youth football, Thapa said:

Anirudh Thapa was part of the India squad which featured in the AFC Asian Cup 2019 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Thapa scored in the historic 4-1 win over Thailand in the opening fixture. Thapa was elated as he spoke about his experience in playing in Asia’s top international football competition:

Anirudh Thapa on the future of the Indian national team

The Indian football team is in a tactical and philosophical transition phase after the departure of former Head Coach Stephen Constantine. The national team is now led by Head Coach Igor Stimac who has fundamentally, a different approach to playing the game. Thapa explained the differences between the two coaches. He said:

The FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 was a major success in terms of stadium attendance and organisation of the event. The event also allowed young footballers to perform and get scouted to top Indian football clubs. When asked about the role of the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 and the upcoming FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2021. He said:

Part 2 of the Interview will be published soon.

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