Vimal Yoganathan aims to inspire Tamil players in Carabao Cup

Vimal Yoganathan, an 18-year-old midfielder, is on the brink of a significant moment in his career as he prepares to face Manchester United in the Carabao Cup. This match represents not only a personal milestone but also a potential source of inspiration for the Tamil community, which has seen few representatives in professional football. Yoganathan's journey has been marked by a lack of role models from similar backgrounds, making his achievements even more noteworthy. Growing up in Trelawnyd, Wales, Yoganathan began playing football at the age of four and was signed by Liverpool, only to be released later. After a stint with Burnley, he found his place at Barnsley, where he has been able to showcase his talent. His experiences highlight the challenges faced by south Asian players in the sport, with only a small percentage of professionals coming from these backgrounds. Yoganathan attributes his success to the unwavering support of his family, who encouraged him to pursue his passion despite the uncertainties of a football career. He acknowledges the risks involved, as many parents prefer safer educational paths for their children. By stepping onto the pitch at Old Trafford, Yoganathan hopes to raise awareness about the need for greater representation of Tamil and south Asian players in football. His ambition is to pave the way for future generations, demonstrating that success is possible regardless of background.