In a report released by British publication “The Guardian”, where they rated the 60 best young talents in the world right now, they mentioned Delhi FC striker Himanshu Jangra on the list alongside some popular names like Spain’s Gavi, and Portugal’s Hugo Felxi.
Plenty of Indian strikers in the last decade-and-a-half have tried their best to emulate Sunil Chhetri, in a bid to replace the nation’s talisman in the central position upfront. Unfortunately, no one has managed to reach his level, and India’s hunt for their future striker continues.
17-year-old Himanshu Jangra, however, could prove to be a beacon of hope for those Indian fans aspiring big things for the national side. The youngster who represents Delhi FC in I-League’s second division, has risen through the ranks of Minerva Punjab Academy.
He appeared in one game for Punjab FC in last season’s I-League 2nd division, where he impressed everyone with two goals. He was soon asked to play in the senior side in I-League’s top division, where he made five appearances.
Before making his move to Delhi FC, Jangra also represented Bengal’s Mohammedan FC in the second division of I League, and Techtro Swades United in the Himachal Football League.
The youngster made his mark while representing India’s U15 side in the 2019 SAFF U15 Championship. He scored seven goals for the country and won the golden boot in the tournament. An impressive hat-trick against Bangladesh, where he romped through the defence with his pace and trickery, earned him a lot of attention.
He has built up an impressive body frame for his age, and uses it well to protect the ball. His ability to hold possession and keep the ball moving via through balls to the wings has garnered plenty of positive scouting reports, so much so that the world has started taking note.
Although the youngster prefers playing through the center, his pace and ability to move forward with the ball have helped him expand his resume as he can operate on the left wing as well. Ex-India player turned developmental team coach Bibiano Fernandes has used him in the number 10 role.
While there is a lot of scope for improvement when it comes to his finishing, Jangra has established himself as the next big thing, now attracting global attention towards him. He is also on ISL clubs’ radar for over 12 months, but since he is just 17 as yet, he might have to wait another year before entering India’s premier football competition.
The list also includes Gavi from Spain, who just became the youngest to represent his senior national side. La Roja head coach Luis Enrique had asked him to mark Marco Verratti in the Nations League game against Italy.
Barcelona midfielder also impressed on the ball, tried to run with it whenever he had the opportunity and contributed to some crucial attacks with his impressive passing range.
Borussia Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko, who became the youngest ever footballer to feature in German top flight and also in the Champions League last season, is also on the list. Moukoko, who turns 17 in November, has represented Germany U21 side and scored 3 goals in 2 games.
Hugo Felix, younger brother of world’s second most expensive teenage signing Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid), finds his name in the list having done an impressive job at the developmental levels for Benfica. Hugo, who operates in an attacking midfield role, signed his first professional contract with the Eagles last year, and is keen on making it to the senior team soon.
