The son of a farmer hailing from Balrampur district in Uttar Pradesh, Akash Mishra’s journey to the Indian Super League remains an inspiration to many youngsters in the country. A full-back by trait, Akash’s fortunes changed after the U Dream Football Academy selected him for their camp in 2015. The 18-year-old spent three years learning the trade in Germany and returned to India in 2018, when he was picked up by the Indian Arrows, after breaking into the India U18 side.  He was a regular in the starting XI of the U18 squad that clinched the SAFF Championships in 2019, scoring twice in seven appearances. The youngster announced himself at the biggest stage with a bang, cementing his place in the first team under Manolo Marquez. He has played more minutes under Manolo than any other player, while also earning a National Team call-up last year. Mishra was a crucial player as HFC lifted the ISL trophy last season before he signed a contract extension with the club till the end of the 2024-25 campaign.