In its ISL debut against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, newly promoted Punjab FC will turn to Madih Talal, who has played for Amiens in Ligue 1, to give the midfield some creative spark.
By his own admission, Madih Talal is a devoted fan of Naruto. In order to defeat Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) on Saturday as the Frenchman begins his first season in the Indian Super League (ISL) with Punjab FC, he will need to align his chakras and materialise all of his skills on the pitch.
Talal would be excused for feeling anxious as he waits to make his ISL debut because playing an opening match against the reigning champion can be intimidating.
The Mariners have the most expensive and, arguably, the strongest team in the ISL this season. They are in fine shape after winning the Durand Cup for a record 17th time by defeating their bitter rival East Bengal. The odds are in favour of Mohun Bagan winning.
But like his favourite anime character, the midfielder displays no indications of anxiety, at least from the outside.
I'm more thrilled than anxious. We shall determine how we must win the game after seeing this terrific match between two very talented teams.
Additionally, the game presents the chance of a midfield duel between Talal and Hugo Boumous, a fellow countryman who Talal claims he was familiar with and occasionally followed before joining Punjab. After the game, only time will tell which Frenchman will be able to stand taller.
Talal has appeared for Amiens in Ligue 1. However, for Punjab, it is not what is most intriguing. His brand of football is what should get Staikos Vergetis, the head coach, fired up.
"I am a more aggressive midfielder. I enjoy shooting, therefore I like to be in the last third and around the box. I want to assist the squad in developing assaults since I am a player who can open doors for the attackers, says Talal.
With such a profile, Vergetis must have previously considered the mouthwatering idea of Talal and striker Luka Majcen teaming together. Majcen was a crucial part of Punjab's promotion to the ISL last season thanks to his 16 goals and three assists in the I-League.
With Tala's vision and Majcen's pinpoint accuracy, Punjab FC can create a mixture that leaves the opposition with a bad taste in their mouth.
Talal assisted AE Kifisia FC in gaining promotion to the Greek Super League during his final season with the team. He will represent Punjab FC this year, a freshly promoted team.
Every decision will be scrutinised more closely than usual, and the team will be evaluated on its ability to compete at the highest levels of Indian football at every turn. However, according to Talal, this would only spur his players on to do better.
I have no concerns about these issues. Football requires this kind of attention, but you must just keep playing, stay concentrated, and give your all in every game. The players shouldn't be under any pressure from you. Keep your freedom, you must.
Talal is most likely to get the nod for Punjab FC against MBSG in the season opener. While a victory would be the main goal, Talal intends to get going straight away and leave his stamp on the match as well.
Talal grins and says, "I prefer assists. A goal would be the ideal way to start a new chapter and help my team win.
