Born in Srinagar, Mehrajuddin Wadoo has come a long way in his footballing career. He started out as a striker in his initial days but was later converted into a defender though he is more than happy to be playing as a central defensive midfielder as well. Put him anywhere on a football pitch, give him a ball at his feet and watch him make the most of every position to create magic. Having played for both the giants of Bengal (East Bengal and Mohun Bagan), Sporting Clube de Goa, Chennaiyin FC among others, the Kashimiri veteran has now signed up with Mumbai City FC to play in the latest edition of the Indian Super League.

His list of achievements includes four Federation Cup winners’ medal besides an IFA Shield. Wadoo has won the Nehru Cup twice (2007 & 2009) and has also been named the best right-back in the Hero ISL during the second edition of the Indian Super League (ISL) while wearing the colours of Chennaiyin FC, as he helped his side to the coveted Hero ISL trophy, appearing in fourteen matches for the Super Machans.

Jersey Football Magazine had the pleasure to have a chat with Mehrajuddin Wadoo ahead of the upcoming ISL season and here is an excerpt:

JERSEY: Mehraj, Tell us about your perspective on the overall growth of the ISL in terms of quality of the players, over the years.

The ISL has been very successful in terms of the development of the footballers in India, as well as the popularity of Indian football. Since the very first edition to now, the players have gained a lot of confidence and experience. Even the tempo of the game has also seen a vast rise and I am sure that in the future years, we will see further improvement and progress of football in India.

JERSEY: According to you, which ISL team seems the strongest this season — the most challenging that you will face in the colours of Mumbai City FC?

I think all teams are equally strong in the ISL and each game is important to win.

JERSEY: Throw more light on your journey, Mehraj. You started as a striker in your initial days, now you defend. What is that like?

Yes, I have started as a striker in my early days, for my school team. But so far in my professional football career, different coaches have given me different roles and positions to play on the field and I have always tried to give my best to whatever was asked from me by my coaches.

JERSEY: Which striker do you find the most challenging to face as a defender?

A lot of teams have new players this season and I am looking forward to face all new strikers. But [Stiven] Mendoza and [Ian] Hume have been my favourites.

JERSEY: With so many youngsters in the Mumbai City FC squad, do they look up to you for advise — you being a senior player?

Of course. We have a number of young players at Mumbai City FC and I am more than happy to help them in whatever way I can. I am always available for them to come and talk to me about anything.

The team at Jersey would like to thank Mr. Wadoo for taking out the time to interact with us and we wish him all the very best for the upcoming ISL season, and with his journey at Mumbai City FC!