In a significant move highlighting the current state of flux in Indian football, professional player M Mayakkannan has chosen an unconventional path to maintain his competitive edge. The 28-year-old midfielder, a regular for Indian Super League (ISL) side NorthEast United FC, is currently featuring for the Tamil Nadu state team in the ongoing Santosh Trophy, the National Football Championship.
A Pragmatic Decision for Match Fitness
The core reason for this shift is the extended off-season and the uncertain start date for the next ISL edition. Mayakkannan has not played a competitive match since the Super Cup, creating a risk of reporting unfit to his club's pre-season camp. Since his ISL club has not yet registered him for the new league season, he is eligible for state-level tournaments and sought permission from NorthEast United to participate.
"We have been away from competitive action for six-seven months," Mayakkannan told TOI from Anantapur. "Playing in the Santosh Trophy will help us stay fit. We should not struggle when we report to camps and avoid getting injured during pre-season training. Personally, that is specifically why I have come here."
Making an Immediate Impact for Tamil Nadu
Mayakkannan's decision has already borne fruit for the state team. In his Santosh Trophy debut on Wednesday, he found the net in Tamil Nadu's emphatic 6-0 victory over Andaman and Nicobar Islands in their Group G opener. He expressed pride in representing his home state, a sentiment that accompanies his practical goals.
He is not alone in this approach. The Tamil Nadu squad also includes India U-23 goalkeeper K Mohanraj and versatile player Karthick Thirumalai, both of whom were part of Chennaiyin FC's Super Cup squad. Their presence underscores a growing trend among top-tier players seeking competitive minutes during the league hiatus.
Blending Experience with Youthful Energy
Tamil Nadu's campaign is being led by head coach Dharmaraj Ravanan, who is aiming to craft a balanced side. The team boasts a mix of seasoned campaigners and fresh talent. Alongside Mayakkannan, Mohanraj, and Karthick, the squad features former ISL players like Alexander Romario Jesuraj, Sinivasan Pandiyan, and Jockson Dhas.
"There are new faces in this team, and they are adapting really well," Coach Ravanan said, expressing confidence in his squad's ability to deliver. The strategy is clear: leverage the experience of players accustomed to high-pressure environments while harnessing the energy of emerging footballers.
The situation also reveals the administrative challenges in the sport. It is reported that another Tamil Nadu attacker, an ISL player, showed interest in joining the Santosh Trophy squad but could not secure the necessary clearance from his club. Mayakkannan's successful participation, therefore, represents a valuable opportunity seized amidst the broader uncertainty surrounding the Indian football calendar.
