As a tradition our players voted on the best performers for March. Not the first time a goalkeeper managed to receive this huge recognition, but Jonah Mundu has also won the honorary title twice in 2024. We introduce him this time around.
Congratulations, you are the player of the month! Were you expecting to win this?
Thank you! To be honest, I did not expect to win the Player of the Month title and I believe that this is for the entire team.
How hard is it for a goalkeeper to win such recognition?
Recognition as the best player of the month for a goalkeeper can be challenging due to the different metrics used to evaluate their performance compared to outfield players. While outfield players are often judged by goals scored, assists, and defensive contributions, goalkeepers’ performances are measured by clean sheets, saves made, distribution, and leadership. Although these aspects are crucial, they may not always receive the same level of attention as the flashy performances of outfield players. However, if a goalkeeper consistently demonstrates exceptional skill, makes crucial saves, and keeps clean sheets, they can certainly be contenders for such recognition, though it may require standout performances or high-profile matches.
You are one of the few foreigners in the squad, how do you like it here and what’s it like playing in Hungary?
As one of the few foreigners in the squad, I have found my experience in Hungary to be quite enriching both on and off the field. While adapting to a new country and culture can be challenging, I’ve been warmly welcomed by my teammates, coaching staff, and fans, which has made the transition smoother. Playing in Hungary has been an exciting opportunity for me as I’ve been able to experience a different style of football and compete in a league with its unique characteristics. The level of competition is high, and I’ve been impressed by the passion and enthusiasm that Hungarians have for the game. Overall, I’ve enjoyed my time here and am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the team’s success while immersing myself in the Hungarian football culture.
How did you start playing football and why did you want to be a goalkeeper?
I began playing football as a young boy in a community that lacked formal football academies, so we played basic football in an informal setting. Initially, I took up the position of striker, but I found inspiration in my elder brothers, who were goalkeepers. Motivated by their example, I decided to follow in their footsteps and began training to become a goalkeeper myself. This transition occurred during my late teenage years.
How or why did you move to Hungary?
I arrived in Hungary in 2019 to work as an IT engineer for one of the multinational companies, the same one I had been employed with in India since 2016. This transfer was significant for me as it provided the opportunity to reside in the home country of my favorite figure, Gábor Király. Having studied extensively about Hungary’s history in school, I possessed a substantial amount of knowledge about the country prior to my arrival.
What was your most memorable footballing experience?
Winning the SDA High Schools football tournament in 2009 is a memory that I will never forget. In this tournament, I excelled as both the goalkeeper and the third-highest scorer. As the designated penalty taker for my team, I successfully converted five penalties, contributing significantly to our success.
What is your favorite team?
Chelsea.
Do you have a favorite player?
Gábor Király.
Do you have any other hobbies?
Football aside, I love singing in the Church Choir and Playing Scrabble.
We have thousands of Brazilian fans, would you like to say anything to them?
To all our Brazilian fans, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your incredible support. Your passion for the game and unwavering dedication mean the world to us. Your enthusiasm motivates us to give our all on the pitch and strive for excellence every time we play. Thank you for being part of our journey and for standing by us through the highs and lows. Your love for football is truly inspiring, and we are honored to have you cheering us on. Obrigado por tudo!