Tanush Pandey Emerges as I-League Standout in India's World Cup Quest

Tanush Pandey, a 20-year-old right wing-back for Mumbai City FC Reserves, is emerging as a top football talent. From school tournaments in Lucknow to state wins and I-League success, he has clinched MFA Elite and Super Premier League titles. Representing India at the U-20 camp, Tanush now eyes the FIFA World Cup with unwavering dedication.

In the heart of Indian football’s youth movement, 20-year-old Tanush Pandey stands out as a promising right wing-back for Mumbai City FC Reserves. Born on August 16, 2005, in Lucknow, Tanush’s journey began at La Martiniere College and rapidly progressed after he moved to Gurgaon, representing Delhi Dynamos in the Junior I-League. By 13, he was already competing in the U17 National School Games in Jammu & Kashmir and Tripura.

He later joined Odisha FC, playing in the Elite I-League, and thrived through the COVID-19 pandemic by continuing rigorous training. His leadership helped Mumbai City FC U18 win both the MFA Elite League and Super Premier League in 2023–24 and 2024–25. In the Reliance Foundation Development League, his performances helped secure regional and zonal titles.

Standing 178 cm tall and weighing 66 kg, Tanush is praised for his defensive tenacity, offensive versatility, and strategic mindset. Currently pursuing a B.Sc. in Sports and Exercise Science at Somaiya University, he balances academics with professional play. Having already attended the U-20 India National Team Camp and competed in the I-League Second Division, Tanush remains humble and driven, aiming to represent India at the FIFA World Cup—a dream he’s steadily working toward, one match at a time.