Who is Singamayum Shami? Indian footballer who dazzled with Ronaldinho-esque free kick

17-year-old Singamayum Shami is captivating Indian football fans with his exceptional talent and maturity. 

India is not a place where we come across young footballing stars, but 17-year-old Singamayum Shami is fast-tracking his way to stardom — rewriting expectations with confidence, class, and an uncanny maturity far beyond his years.

As Indian won the SAFF U-19 Championship, Shami was the star player. He produced a 'Ronaldinho-moment' that will stay in the minds of Indian fans forever.

Hailing from Manipur, a region famed for producing raw and relentless football talent, Shami isn’t just emerging — he’s erupting onto the national scene. With milestones already behind him that many players chase their entire lives, the young midfielder is carving a name for himself as India’s next big football sensation.

Early beginnings: From Manipur to Punjab FC

Born on April 18, 2007, Shami grew up in a state where football pulses through the culture. Spotted early for his potential, he joined the academy setup at Punjab FC at the age of 12. His progression through the youth system was steady but undeniable. Technically polished, composed in tight spaces, and an intelligent reader of the game, Shami quickly became one to watch.

He made his mark during standout performances in both the U17 Youth League and the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) — proving himself not just as a flair player, but as one who could dictate tempo and rise under pressure.

ISL breakthrough

On March 6, 2025, Shami’s name was etched into Indian Super League (ISL) history. Coming off the bench for Punjab FC against Hyderabad FC, the teenager scored in the 86th minute with remarkable composure, becoming the youngest-ever goal scorer in the league at just 17 years and 322 days.

It was a moment bigger than just a record. Shami didn’t merely score — he belonged. His awareness, positioning, and sheer confidence sent a clear message: Indian football’s future had arrived.

Captain fantastic: Shami shines in SAFF U-19 Championship

When the SAFF U-19 Championship squad was announced in 2025, there was no hesitation about who would lead India. Wearing the captain’s armband, Shami didn’t just rally the team — he inspired them with brilliance and bravery.

In the final against Bangladesh, Shami produced a goal that instantly entered Indian football folklore. Just two minutes into the match, spotting the Bangladeshi goalkeeper slightly off his line, he stepped up for a free-kick over 30 yards out. What followed was a curling, audacious strike that soared through the air, skimmed past the keeper’s fingertips, and found the top corner.

The crowd erupted as echoes of Ronaldinho’s famous 2002 World Cup goal against England filled the minds of football fans. The comparisons weren’t forced — the strike was that stunning. Like Ronaldinho’s effort that deceived David Seaman, Shami’s goal combined vision, instinct, and bold execution.

Though Bangladesh equalized in the 61st minute through Md Joy Ahamed, the drama wasn’t over. The match went to penalties, and with India trailing early, it was once again Shami who stepped up. Calmly converting the decisive kick, he sealed a nerve-wracking 4–3 shootout win and handed India the title.

In one unforgettable night, Shami had scored a goal-of-the-tournament contender and delivered the match-winning penalty — not just as a player, but as a leader.

Why Shami stands out

What separates Shami from other emerging talents isn’t just skill — it’s maturity. He plays with a sense of purpose and intelligence rare in players his age. A playmaker with a gift for unlocking defenses, Shami’s passing range, decision-making, and ability to operate under pressure give him the look of a seasoned professional.

He’s physical when needed, smart in the press, and fearless in duels. Whether switching play with a sweeping diagonal or threading a ball between defenders in the final third, Shami executes with precision and intent.

Off the pitch, he leads with quiet confidence. He listens, learns, and leads without needing the spotlight. Coaches praise his humility and work ethic, and teammates naturally look to him during difficult moments.

The road ahead: Promise meets responsibility

Shami’s rise has been meteoric, but now comes the true test — consistency and development. The Indian Super League can be both a launchpad and a challenge for young talent. He will need playing time, smart management, and mentorship to evolve further.

If Punjab FC continues to invest in his growth and the national team provides the right environment, Shami could very well be the face of a new era for Indian football. Interest from abroad is inevitable — scouts and clubs are already watching — and with pathways to Europe widening for Indian players, a move overseas in the next year or two wouldn’t be surprising.

The name to remember

With a free-kick that echoed Ronaldinho, a penalty taken like a veteran, and leadership that lifted a nation’s hopes, Singamayum Shami has shown the world who he is.

And this, clearly, is only the beginning.