In a surprising and exciting development for Indian football, Canadian goalkeeper Sunny Dhaliwal has recently acquired an Indian passport and is gearing up for a move to the country of his birth. The towering 6 feet 5-inch goalkeeper, born on January 30, 2000, in Kolkata, West Bengal, has already left his mark on the Indian football landscape when he was part of the India squad for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2017.
Sunny Dhaliwal, who has honed his skills playing for the youth teams of Major League Soccer (MLS) side Toronto FC, brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Indian football scene. His decision to obtain an Indian passport marks a significant step in his career and opens up new possibilities for both the player and Indian football.
The FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2017 was a platform that showcased Dhaliwal’s goalkeeping prowess to the world. Being a part of the India squad during the tournament provided him with valuable experience and exposure at an international level. Now, with his decision to move to India, Dhaliwal aims to contribute to the growth and development of football in the country.
Having played for Toronto FC’s youth teams in the MLS, Dhaliwal brings a level of professionalism and training that will undoubtedly benefit Indian football. His towering presence as a goalkeeper, combined with his experience in high-level competitions, adds a new dimension to the country’s football landscape.
The move also highlights the global nature of football and the increasing trend of players choosing diverse paths in their careers. Sunny Dhaliwal’s decision to don the Indian jersey reflects his strong connection to his roots and a commitment to contributing to the sport in the country where he was born.
As Indian football continues to evolve and make strides on the international stage, the addition of players like Sunny Dhaliwal will play a crucial role in elevating the overall standard of the game. The AIFF’s scouting efforts, especially through their online portal, showcase a forward-thinking approach in identifying and nurturing talent.
The anticipation surrounding Sunny Dhaliwal’s move to India is palpable, and football enthusiasts across the nation eagerly await the impact he will make on the domestic league and, potentially, the national team. This exciting development is a testament to the growing allure of Indian football and its ability to attract talent from around the world.