ISL 2021-22: From being one of the brightest stars to emerge from the U-17 World Cup to being told he could not play professionally any more, Anwar Ali has seen a lot of highs and lows in his short career. After years of trying to plead his case both on and off the field, finally the 21-year-old will be able to play at the highest level after officially signing for FC Goa in the ISL, the perfect New Year gift for the talented footballer. Follow ISL live updates on InsideSport.IN
ISL 2021-22: Anwar Ali all set for FC Goa challenge two years after being diagnosed with rare heart condition
Anwar Ali burst onto the scene during the U-17 World Cup in India and played every single minute for the national team. His performances drew admirers from all corners and even earned him a move to the ISL with Mumbai City FC.
But his life turned upside-down when he was diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). The condition — in which the abnormally thick heart muscle wall affects the pumping of blood — can be worsened by excessive physical exertion and other factors like not acclimating to high temperatures.
The AIFF medical committee then came out with the verdict that Anwar Ali could not play professionally anymore and not even train. After fighting a legal battle, and proving his fitness by playing in state leagues all across India, Anwar Ali is back at the stage where he was destined to play in.
ISL 2021-22: Anwar Ali all set for FC Goa challenge two years after being diagnosed with rare heart condition
“I’m really happy to be in the ISL. I know I can play here and I cant wait to show what I can do for FC Goa,” a happy Anwar Ali proclaimed after officially signing on the dotted line.
New Year, Neo Gaur! Welcome Anwar Ali! 😎🥳#ForcaGoa #AmcheGaurs pic.twitter.com/7X9fesEnqv
— FC Goa (@FCGoaOfficial) January 1, 2022
Anwar admitted that he had almost lost hope and thought of giving up but support from his family, his former club owner and the fans kept him going.
“To be honest, I did think of quitting. I have being fighting both on field and off it. Ranjit Bajaj, owner of Minerva, kept helping me and my parents kept me in positive spirits. And the messages of support from all over social media played a major role in me overcoming those doubts. I’m just glad to be here finally and hopefully, people will keep supporting me in this new journey,” Anwar added.
ISL 2021-22: Anwar Ali all set for FC Goa challenge two years after being diagnosed with rare heart condition
And his attributes are perfectly suited to this current FC Goa side. Anwar Ali has always been a ball-playing centre-back, something both Goa and the national side are crying out for.
Anwar Ali played more domestic matches than any other player in India since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic – a period where footballing activities nearly ground to a halt country wide. Ten matches in Punjab, six in Himachal, four in the Durand Cup, seven Delhi League games and another seven I-League qualifiers. He was also the top-scorer till recently in Delhi state league, all of which attracted FC Goa.
“I was not aware of the offers until Ranjit Bajaj informed me of FC Goa’s interest. I was delighted with the news and I really like Goa’s style and it suits me. I have been training here for the past month and all my teammates and coach has kept supporting and motivating me. Now when I get the chance, I need to repay the trust,” Anwar Ali signed off.
ISL 2021-22: Anwar Ali all set for FC Goa challenge two years after being diagnosed with rare heart condition
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