India’s first Women's Champions League footballer, Manisha Kalyan, announces her departure from Apollon Ladies
Indian women’s footballer Manisha Kalyan has announced her departure from Limassol-based Cypriot First Division outfit Apollon Ladies. The 22-year-old forward shared the news via a heartfelt social media post on June 24, reflecting on her time with the team and expressing gratitude for the opportunities she received.
“I want to express my heartfelt thanks for the incredible journey of the past two years with Apollon Ladies. It has been an honor to be a part of this team and club. I will forever be thankful for the memories and the support from everyone. Wishing you all continued success in the future,” wrote Manisha Kalyan on Instagram.
Manisha’s association with Apollon Ladies began on July 3, 2022, when she signed her contract with the club. She made her debut on August 18, coming off the bench in the 60th minute to help secure a 3-0 victory against Rīgas FS in the qualifying stage of the UEFA Women's Champions League.
Her first goal for the club came on October 2, 2022, in a Cypriot First Division match against Aris Limassol. This goal marked the beginning of a series of memorable performances.
When Apollon Limassol clinched the 2022–23 Cypriot Women's League title, Manisha became the first Indian woman to win a European championship.
Her stellar season also earned her a spot in the 2022–23 Pancyprian Footballers Association (PASP) women's team of the season. During her time with the club, Manisha netted 14 goals in 36 matches.
A look at Manisha Kalyan's achievements
Before her European ventures, Manisha made significant strides in Indian football. While playing for Gokulam Kerala, she won the Indian Women's League in 2019–20 and 2021–22.
Her exceptional performances earned her the AIFF Women's Emerging Footballer of the Year award in 2020–21 and the AIFF Women's Player of the Year award for two consecutive years in 2021–22 and 2022–23.
Internationally, Manisha Kalyan has been a vital player for the Indian women's football team. She contributed to their victory in the SAFF Women’s Championship in 2019 and secured a gold medal at the South Asian Games the same year.
She notably became the first Indian footballer to play in the UEFA Women's Champions League and was recently honored as the best midfielder at the Turkish Women’s Cup.