Boria Majumdar
Anirudh Thapa has been one of the cornerstones of Mohun Bagan’s dominance of Indian club football in recent seasons. He has scored six goals in his 60 appearances for the Mariners, since the move from Chennaiyin FC in June 2023. In this exclusive interview with Boria Majumdar, RevSportz editor-in-chief, Thapa talks of the weight of the Bagan jersey, the Kolkata derby and why success in Asian club competition would mean so much for football in India.
BM: Hello, and welcome to a very special conversation with a very special player. Anirudh Thapa has enthralled Indian football fans with his versatility, energy, resilience, and goals. We’ll talk about all of that today. Tell me, what does Mohun Bagan mean to you?
AT: For me, Mohun Bagan is everything — the club, the fans, the management. Every time we step onto the field wearing that jersey, it feels special. It’s not just another match or another club. The support is everywhere — in the stadium, on the streets, even on our off days. People greet us with so much passion.
It’s an honour to represent this club, because not every player gets that chance. I’m fortunate, and I take it very seriously.
BM: Huge moment ahead — the AFC competitions. No Indian club has really made a big mark there. How do you see the challenge?
AT: Exactly. No Indian club has done it yet, but we’re working hard to change that. We’ve signed quality players, because at that level it’s never easy. But it’s not just about Mohun Bagan — it’s about representing Indian football. If we do well, it opens doors for more Indian clubs and helps Indian football grow. That’s the bigger picture.
BM: Speaking of new signings — Mehtab, Abhishek [Singh Tekcham], and Robson. You’ve trained with them. First impressions?
AT: They’re fantastic players and equally fantastic people. From the first session itself, their professionalism, attitude and positivity stood out. They’ve blended in so quickly, and that energy has made the team environment even better. Positivity in the dressing room is so important, and they’ve brought plenty of it.
BM: Let’s move to the ISL. There was uncertainty, but now the Supreme Court has cleared the commercial rights issue, and the tournament is set to begin in December. Your thoughts on that and the derby?
AT: ISL is crucial. So many livelihoods depend on it — players, coaches, support staff, fans of every age. Everyone is waiting for football to restart. People want to enjoy it, because ISL brings back that passion and magic.
And of course, the derby — Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal — is something else. Scoring in a derby is unlike anything else. Not even a final compares. The energy from the fans, the atmosphere from the hotel to the stadium — it’s electric. Honestly, it’s a little intimidating too, because the whole of Bengal lives that game. It’s not just football, it’s emotion, culture, and legacy.
BM: So, it’s more than just a match for you?
AT: Absolutely. You can see it in everyone’s eyes — the passion, the anger, the determination — players, staff, management. Everyone knows it’s not just another game. The derby is special.
BM: Back to the AFC. With [Jose] Molina at the helm and a stronger squad, do you think Mohun Bagan has the team to make a mark?
AT: Last year, we had the potential but fell short. This year, the squad is deeper and stronger, and most of the players already know the system. That’s a big positive. Some of us are experienced, others are new — but that mix can work well. I genuinely believe we can do better this time.
BM: Tell us about your coach, Molina. What makes him special?
AT: His presence of mind. He knows when to change tactics, how to execute ideas, and he has tremendous experience. The support staff around him also work tirelessly. Molina understands Indian football deeply and has coached at the Asian level as well, so he brings that perspective. His confidence and clarity make a huge difference to us.
BM: On a personal level, what are your goals for the next 12 months?
AT: To stay fit and to win everything with Mohun Bagan. That’s the dream. Last season, we won the double but missed the Durand Cup. Before that, we won Durand and ISL, but missed the Shield. I want us to complete the set — win everything in one season. That would be an incredible honour, because Mohun Bagan doesn’t just sign anyone and keep them, so would like to justify that.
BM: Finally, your message for the fans — especially with the AFC matches and the festive season coming up. And maybe a special Mohun Bagan memory too?
AT: There are many memories, but winning the double last year stands out. The fans were with us through wins and losses, always backing us. That support means everything.
My message is simple — keep supporting us the way you always have. We play for you, for that jersey, for the legacy. Your passion drives us.
The foreigners in the team are amazed when they see it for the first time. Of course, we can’t indulge in the famous street food, but sweets — yes, I love sweets (laughs). The medical and fitness staff make sure we stay in shape, but whenever I go home, my family still says, “You’re looking weak.”
We also enjoy small things — late-night drives on off days, soaking in the atmosphere. Those are the moments we cherish.
BM: Wonderful. Thank you, Thapa. Wishing you all the very best.
AT: Thank you so much. (Smiles) And yes, more sweets next time!
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Watch the full interview here
🚨EXCLUSIVE🚨
“For me, Mohun Bagan is everything” – Anirudh Thapa
In a candid chat with @BoriaMajumdar, Thapa shares his love, passion for @mohunbagansg, talks about fans, ISL, Derby and lot more!#ISL #KolkataDerby #MBSG @Wowmomo4u @AnirudhThapa pic.twitter.com/NBregjISif
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) September 7, 2025