ANIRUDH
THAPA
central midfielder
Player Profile
Anirudh Thapa is a premier Indian professional footballer who serves as a creative engine in the midfield for Mohun Bagan. Renowned for his vision, technical proficiency, and high work rate, he is widely regarded as one of the finest box-to-box midfielders in the country.
Early Career & Development
Born on January 15, 1998, in Dehradun, Thapa's journey began at St. Stephen's Academy before he was scouted for the AIFF Elite Academy. His leadership qualities were evident early on, captaining the side in the U-19 I-League and earning a training stint with French club FC Metz.
Professional Journey
Thapa rose to prominence at Chennaiyin FC, where he spent seven seasons and became a club legend. Following a successful loan spell at Minerva Punjab where he won the I-League, he returned to Chennaiyin to lead them as captain. In June 2023, he made a high-profile move to Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
Breakthrough and Success
His breakthrough came in the 2017-18 ISL season, where he played a crucial role in Chennaiyin’s title win. Since joining the Mariners, Thapa has been instrumental in securing the Durand Cup and back-to-back ISL League Shields, solidifying his status as a big-game player.
Playing Style
A versatile "number 8," Thapa excels in transitioning play from defense to attack. His ability to find pockets of space, deliver precise set-pieces, and offer defensive cover makes him indispensable in a three-man midfield.
Key Achievements
- • Indian Super League Champion: 2017–18, 2024-25
- • ISL League Winners Shield: 2023–24, 2024-25
- • Durand Cup Winner: 2023
- • AIFF Men's Emerging Player of the Year: 2017-18, 2019-20
Stat-o-Meter
Honours
ISL Shield (2023-24, 2024-25); ISL Cup (2024-25); Durand Cup (2023), IFA Shield (2025)
Previous Clubs
Chennaiyin FC, Minerva Punjab
Tenure
2023 - Present
Maintained by Aryaan, Arijit, Probudhya
Managed by Team MBFT