In a revealing conversation, football visionary Ranjeet Bajaj has opened up about his remarkable journey in the sport, detailing the creation of Minerva Academy and outlining the critical path forward for Indian football. The discussion, which took place on December 20, 2025, delved into the systemic hurdles holding the nation back and the essential qualities needed to cultivate a new generation of champions.
From Ground Up: Building Minerva and Making History
Ranjeet Bajaj's narrative is one of passion and perseverance. He shared the inspiring story of building the Minerva Academy from the ground up, an institution that has become a beacon for youth football development in India. The academy's crowning achievement, a historic victory for its youth team in Argentina, stands as a testament to what Indian talent can accomplish on the global stage with the right guidance and infrastructure. This triumph proved that Indian players could compete and win against international opposition, offering a powerful glimpse into the country's potential.
Diagnosing the Lag: Systemic Gaps and Required Changes
Bajaj did not shy away from addressing the elephant in the room: why does football in India continue to lag behind? He pointed to deep-rooted systemic issues that require urgent overhaul. Beyond just infrastructure, he emphasized the need for a fundamental shift in approach—from grassroots development and coaching standards to administrative vision and competitive exposure. Bridging this gap, according to Bajaj, is not just about investment but about a cultural and structural revolution in how the sport is perceived and nurtured.
The conversation also touched upon the impactful Messi tour, with Bajaj sharing key insights from the event and its significant role in shaping the aspirations of young Indian footballers. Seeing a global icon like Lionel Messi up close provided an invaluable motivational boost and a tangible benchmark for excellence.
The Champion's Blueprint: Mindset Over Everything
Central to Bajaj's philosophy for creating future stars is the development of specific inner qualities. He passionately highlighted that technical skill alone is insufficient. The young generation must cultivate self-control, discipline, and a resilient mindset to truly become champions. This champion mentality, he argued, is the differentiator that can propel Indian athletes to world-class levels.
Adding a lighter note to the deep dive, the global football debate of Messi versus Ronaldo also found its way into the discussion. Bajaj shared his personal preference in the enduring rivalry, connecting it to the broader themes of playing style and inspiration that influence upcoming players.
Ultimately, this episode served as a powerful exploration of football passion, transformative leadership, and the actionable roadmap for the future of the sport in India. Ranjeet Bajaj's insights move beyond critique, offering a clear-eyed vision built on experience, historic success, and an unwavering belief in the country's footballing talent.
