Till the midway of the ongoing 2020-21 ISL, people knew Ishan Pandita as just another young footballer, waiting in the sidelines to get his opportunity. Roll down the time by a few matches, the Delhi-boy has a serious purpose in the FC Goa unit, while Indian football fans specifically keeping an eye on him towards the ending stages of a game to produce the magic he often does. Having played just 56 minutes across nine matches and scoring four goals – all after the 83rd minute, just defines why he the ‘super sub’ every team would want in their ranks.

Having seen the two different football structures in his career so far – India and Spain, Ishan is a footballer with less experience but rich eyes, having scrutinized both worlds with deep insights. While India is still taking long strides to keep up the pace with the leading nations in the trade, there’s no denying that the scope for improvement is vast. Even though India have produced physically strong players in recent times, the tactical aspect of the game has let them down on the international stage. Having patience and consistency is India’s mantra to success for the time being.

“But, all coaches say, tactically, we're still below the standards in Europe. That’s what we learn there (in Europe) at a very young age - positioning, the work that’s done off the ball, the movements, to be in the right place at the right time. All these things come with time, and that’s what I feel India is lacking at the moment.”

“I guess you could say that, I guess I am the type of person to make the most out of the situation. So, things weren’t going too well with the world due to Covid-19. And I never really had any intention to come back home, I was set to stay in Spain for as long as I could,” revealed the 22-year old.

“I was doing pre-season with a very good team, at a good level and at the last moment, things didn't turn out the way I wanted them to due to a few reasons and this India thing (FC Goa) came up which I thought maybe it was a good idea to come back home with all the things happening in the world. Come home, settle down for a little-bit and show myself to India I guess.”

“I mean you could say that it was a part of the strategy, the coach throws me on with confidence, knowing that I’m probably going to get a goal, or I’ll have an impact inside the box in the last few minutes or maybe even win a penalty or an assist. I’m a striker, so that’s what I try to do. I am an attacking player and it’s been going well so far, touch wood,” stated Pandita.

Overall, the experience with Juan Ferrando has been fruitful for the footballer, with him gaining valuable experience from the Spaniard. To build a ‘character’ for oneself is a priority for any footballer, but the grooming from the head coach has been a bonus, admits the footballer. 

For the time being, Ishan Pandita would focus on none other than the two-legged semi-finals against Mumbai City FC – the 2020-21 ISL League Shield Winners. Once done, Pandita will be gearing for a new venture, under a new mentor in unconquered territories as tougher challenges lie ahead.