Last Updated:
Zinc Football Academy’s Mohammed Kaif has signed a five-year contract with Hyderabad FC.
Zinc Football Academy’s Mohammed Kaif has signed with Hyderabad FC (Hindustan Zinc)
Zinc Football Academy youngster, 16-year-old defender Mohammed Kaif, has signed a five-year contract with the 2021 Indian Super League (ISL) side Hyderabad FC.
Born to a former Santosh Trophy player Mohammed Sayeed, the transfer marks a significant milestone in the journey of the talented youngster from Makrana in Rajasthan, who has already established himself as one of the brightest young talents in Indian Football.
Mohammed Kaif earlier became the first footballer from Rajasthan in more than 40 years to represent India. He excelled on the international stage in both 2023 and 2024, cementing Rajasthan’s growing prominence in football under Hindustan Zinc’s support. He won two SAFF Cup titles and also played in the AFC Asian Cup 2025 Qualifiers. He is currently at the India Under-20 training camp, ahead of the Under-20 SAFF Cup in May 2025.
Kaif’s rise began at the AIFF 3-star rated Academy when he was scouted at the age of 10 back in 2018. His fantastic development, courtesy of the coaches at the Academy, culminated in an outstanding campaign at the AIFF Under-17 Youth League last season, further solidifying his reputation as a top young talent, attracting nationwide attention. The centre-back, who is a fan of Spaniard Sergio Ramos, stands tall as an inspiration for lakhs of rural and tribal talent who dream to achieve big in football.
Speaking on Kaif’s successful transfer, Arun Misra, CEO – Hindustan Zinc, said: “We are extremely proud that a top Indian club like Hyderabad FC has recognised Mohammed Kaif’s immense potential at such a young age. He is an inspiration for his generation, especially in Rajasthan. Kaif’s success, along with our player Sahil Poonia’s transfer to Bengaluru FC, motivates us to continue in our mission of nurturing such hidden talents from our communities and contribute positively towards the development of Indian Football.”
Delighted to welcome Kaif on his new journey, Dhruv Sood, Chief Executive Officer, Hyderabad FC, said: “We are excited to welcome Mohammed Kaif to Hyderabad FC. We have tracked his progress over some time and are happy that he sees HFC as the perfect platform for his further development. He has been integral to the India Under-17 national team, captaining the side at the international stage as well. At Hyderabad FC, we want to provide a platform for talented young players to fulfil their potential. We are confident that he can continue to grow as a player and become an important asset to HFC in the coming years.”
Kaif’s signing also marks the second major transfer from Zinc Football Academy, following goalkeeper Sahil Poonia’s signing with Bengaluru FC in 2022.
