Football has been fortunate enough to witness heroes who stepped up to lead their respective teams to glory, despite the most intense of physical injuries. The image of Bastian Schweinsteiger continuing to battle it out despite being left bleeding right below his left eye in the 2014 World Cup final, presents some valuable inspiration to the strongest of men. Most recently, Lionel Messi showcased his grit and determination in the semi-final of Copa America 2021, continuing to spearhead Argentina’s challenge despite a bloody ankle. Emerging star Melroy Assisi has now joined the illustrious list, having showcased his valour while representing Hyderya Sports FC in a do-or-die encounter against Downtown Hero’s FC. The two sides were battling it out for the second spot in the league standings of the maiden edition of Professional Football League-2021.

The importance of finishing in the coveted spot was further amplified by the opportunity presented to battle it out in the I-League’s second division. Downtown Hero’s FC needed a win to finish second with a draw enough for their opponents. The former gave it their all indulging in aggressive gameplay aimed at intimidation. However, they were left thwarted by Assisi who delivered a performance for the ages, closing down on every challenge. The 22-year-old was left bleeding from his forehead during one of those face-offs, forcing the medical team to step in and apply a thick layer of bandages. Assisi was urged to leave the field due to the intensity with which blood was pouring out. However, the 22-year-old continued to battle it out, throwing caution to the wind. Assisi changed the bandages on his forehead four times during the course of the encounter, due to the blood pouring out. However, he continued to fight like a lion ensuring an all-important draw for Hyderya Sports FC, leaving the fans in a state of elation.

Assisi maintained his composure till the very last second of the encounter, but fell unconscious soon after resulting in him being hospitalised. The footballer’s leadership and composure when it mattered the most reminds one of Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk, whose intensity has been hailed by one and all. However, Assisi refuses to draw any comparison to Dijk indicating his modesty.

“There can be no comparison between me and Virgil, despite my performance. He operates on a different level. One has to showcase leadership and take responsibility on the pitch, especially in the role of a defender. Confidence is key. If you do not back yourself with the ball at your feet, it will be supremely tough. Football is played physically as well as mentally. Watching players like Van Dijk does teach a lot. Fabinho is another fabulous player, who is comfortable operating as a central defensive midfielder and a CB just like the scenario in my case. In professional football, one has to be versatile enough to negotiate any role handed,” he says in an exclusive chat with Sportsjuana.

Yatish Shetty, one of Assisi’s coaches termed the footballer as a self-motivated and mentally strong man, which is rare for a player of his age. The 22-year-old however enjoys supreme clarity in this regard, in the face of immense competition.

“One needs to be self-motivated as a lot of people want you to fail. You cannot rely on others for anything. If you want something, you have to work hard. Mental strength and confidence develop with quality experience. I have to stay confident even in case of a big mistake during the course of an encounter. It is important to work towards making amends rather than getting demotivated.”

Assisi started playing the game at a very young age, with the dream of becoming a top footballer. However, the journey has witnessed its fair share of struggle, which the footballer believes has hardened him mentally.

“The journey started at the age of 11 earning opportunities in district and state-level football during the first year itself. This was followed by selection in the state team, as well as opportunities in club football. I featured for Mumbai FC for a period of four years, having kicked off my career as a professional footballer at Mumbai District Football Association (MDFA). This was followed by a stint with the Union Bank of India. Good performances for the side as well as at the RFYS National Championships 2018-19 while representing Thakur College, earned a trial with the Chennaiyin FC B team.”