Manikandan's journey from Kerala's streets to Real Madrid
Manikandan is a 14-year-old who has been in news recently after securing an opportunity to train with the Spanish football giants Real Madrid CF. While the tale of a young Indian training with a top football club in the world in itself is interesting, his journey from begging on Kerala's streets to reach the place where he has today, is awe-inspiring. Here's his story.
Rescued from the streets of Kerala
Seven years ago, in 2011, Manikandan, along with his sister, led a life begging on the streets of Kollam, Kerala. He was rescued by the Child Protective Services and was put up at Government Children's Home. It was here that Manikandan's talent was spotted and skills were honed over the years. The gifted lanky stopper back hasn't looked back ever since.
How did the training opportunity come about?
Manikandan, now an U-16 player, plays for the district and Football Plus Professional Soccer Academy in Chennai. While playing there, some foreign coaches, impressed by his talent, suggested his name for a special training at Madrid. Manikandan, an ardent Lionel Messi fan, says he "owes his success to his coach and supervisor of the children's home."
What now for Manikandan?
Manikandan will fly to Spain this July for a month-long trip to Madrid after which there are plans to send him to the US or a Latin American country for further development.
