For Moirangthem Thoiba Singh, life has always been about chasing a dream. Growing up in Manipur, his love for football blossomed in humble circumstances. “When I started playing football, there was no ball to play with,” he recalled. “I used to play with pomelos—that’s how I began.” Little did he know then that his relentless passion and dedication would one day earn him a place in the Indian national team.
Thoiba’s journey to this point is nothing short of extraordinary. From playing with pomelos, he progressed to joining a local academy, Amofa Academy, and eventually represented his district and state teams. A significant moment came when he was selected for the U-15 national camp. However, heartbreak followed as he was ruled out at the final stage. “I couldn’t make the final squad,” he said, the memory still vivid.
But setbacks only fuelled Thoiba’s determination. Joining Minerva Academy proved to be a turning point. There, he won the U-15 I-League three times and the U-18 I-League once, even earning a spot in the senior team. This foundation paved the way for his entry into the Indian Super League with Odisha FC.
A Dream Come True
It was a dream come true moment for Thoiba when he got the national team call-up for India’s friendly against Malaysia in Hyderabad. “After the Mohun Bagan match, we were having dinner, and I got a call from Ravi. He asked, ‘Are you going home?’ I said, ‘Yes, tomorrow morning.’ Then he told me, ‘Don’t go home, you’re going for the national camp.’ For a moment, I was silent and shocked. I still couldn’t believe it,” Thoiba shares.
The news spread quickly, and the next morning his coach, coaching staff, and teammates flooded him with congratulatory messages. For Thoiba, this was more than just a call-up—it was the fulfilment of a childhood dream. “Playing for the national team was my dream from childhood. Now it has finally come true,” he said with pride.
Lessons from Legends
In the national team camp, training alongside seasoned players like Rahul Bheke and Sandesh Jhingan has been an invaluable experience for him. “Everyone knows what they have done for Indian football,” Thoiba says. “I’m lucky to train alongside them. They’re not just great players but also amazing people. I’ve gained more knowledge and information from them, both on and off the pitch.”
Thoiba was clear about his role in the camp: to work hard, prove himself in training, and also give his best. “Even if I wouldn’t have made my debut, I would have kept working hard,” he said.
The Debut Moment
Thoiba’s persistence paid off when he finally made his debut for the Indian national team. Although he came off the bench in the dying moments of the game, the experience was monumental for him. “It’s a big boost for my confidence. I’m coming back with a bagful of experience,” he shares.
Overcoming Obstacles
Thoiba’s journey hasn’t been without its share of challenges. His debut season in the ISL (2020-2021) ended abruptly when he got injured in the very first match, ruling him out for the entire season. But he returned stronger and more determined. “In the next season, I came back stronger. That’s the kind of obstacles I’ve overcome,” he said.
Family’s Support and a Star’s Inspiration
For Thoiba, family has been the backbone of his success. “My father was an athlete, and my family supported me a lot. It’s because of them that I’m here today. This wouldn’t have been possible without their love and support,” he says.
He also draws inspiration from Cristiano Ronaldo,”I used to look up to Cristiano Ronaldo when I started playing football.”
The Road Ahead
For Thoiba, this is just the beginning. “It’s just a start—there’s still a long way to go,” he says, his eyes set firmly on the future.