Indian football is currently in its growing stage and has gained immense popularity in the last few years. The Indian football team is yet to achieve many big milestones on international level, which are anticipated to get achieved in the upcoming years. With the rise of Indian football over the years, there have been several players who led the Indian football team to reach the stage where it is right now. 

Let’s have a look at top 10 Indian football captains of all time.

Top 10 Indian Football Captains

10. Talimeren Ao

• Tenure: 1948

The very first captain of independent India, Talimeren Ao led the national side in it's first ever game at the Olympics in 1948.

He played only six times for India, but his name will be long remembered for being the very first captain of the new nation.

Hailing from Nagaland, Ao was a centre-back as well as a qualified physician. There are two stadiums in Assam named after him.

9. Prasun Banerjee

• Tenure: 1980

The younger brother of PK Banerjee, Prasun played for India between 1974-1985 and captained the team five times in international tournaments.

He was a defensive midfielder in his playing days, but is currently an MP from Howrah in the Lok Sabha.

8. Mohammed Habib

• Tenure: 1965-1975

Represented and captained the side between 1965-1975. Habib was a household name amongst football fans in the country back then with PK Banerjee once calling him 'the Indian Pele'.

7. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

• Tenure: Occasional captain

The giant goalie is another who has in recent years been handed the armband by coach Constantine. He led the side out against Puerto Rico in 2016.

6. Jarnail Singh

• Tenure: 1965–67

Captained the Indian Football team between 1965-1967. Jarnail Singh was another in the long list of centre-backs to have captained the side.

He was notably named in the Asian All Star team of 1966.

5. Sailen Manna

• Tenure: 1949–54

Considered one of the best defenders to pull on the India blue, Manna played 14 times for India between 1948-1956. He captained the side to gold at the Asian Games in 1951.

The English FA back in 1953 rated him amongst the 10 best captains in the world in it's annual yearbook.

4. Chuni Goswami

• Tenure: 1960–64

He was one of those multi-sport figures having played international football for India as a striker as well as first-class cricket for the Bengal Ranji Trophy team. He earned 50 caps for India between 1956-1964.

He was captain when India won gold at the Asian Games in 1962 and silver at the Asia Cup two years later.

3. PK Banerjee

• Tenure: 1960–61

Made 84 appearances for India and is one of the most distinguished Indian footballers of all time. He scored 65 times for the side after making his debut in 1955. He captained the side at the 1960 Olympics.

2. Bhaichung Bhutia

• Tenure: 2000-11

The man who really popularized the game of football in the nineties and noughties, the Sikkimese Sniper Bhaichung Bhutia first became captain in 2000-2011. 

The legendary striker who played for over 16 years for the team was captain on numerous occasions including the successful SAFF Championship run in 2005.

1. Sunil Chhetri

• Tenure: 2012–24

The current record goalscorer for the national side, Sunil Chhetri has made the armband his since 2012. It started with the AFC Challenge Cup back then and it has been his to lose ever since. 

With over 150 caps and 95 goals to his name and many other honours, Chhetri will go down as one of the most successful captains of all time when he hangs up his boots.

Chhetri captained India to a record-extending ninth SAFF Championship title. Not only did he finish as that edition’s top scorer with five goals, he became the joint-highest goalscorer in SAFF championship history with 23 goals, along with Maldives’ Ali Ashfaq.

Indian football continues to grow, and the stadiums where the game is played are a key part of its story. The nation has a collection of incredible stadiums that have a history of holding the most high-stakes and celebrated matches.

The capacity of a football stadium directly impacts the overall experience. The larger a stadium, the more fans it can hold, and the bigger the atmosphere for a match. Therefore, this article notes down the best Indian football stadiums ranked by capacity.

1. Salt Lake Stadium (VYBK), West Bengal

• Capacity: 85,000
• Built in: 1984

The Salt Lake Stadium, officially known as Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, is the largest Indian football stadium with a seating capacity of 85,000. Located at the heart of Kolkata, a city that breathes football, in West Bengal, it is simply an electrifying hub for the game.

Originally built in 1984, this stadium has undergone multiple renovations, including a major one for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup, 2017. The stadium saw legendary moments, like when Lionel Messi played here in 2011, or when Diego Maradona visited in 2008, drawing massive crowds.

This stadium is the most reliable venue for hosting major football matches that are played in India, which shows that it is fit for big international events.

Additionally, the famous Kolkata Derby (East Bengal vs. Mohun Bagan) regularly fills the stadium, creating an unforgettable experience for players and fans.

Read Also: East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan: Biggest wins in Kolkata derby history

2. Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi

• Capacity: 60,254
• Built in: 1982

Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium is the second-largest Indian football stadium with a capacity of 60,254. It was originally built to host the events of 1982 Asian Games, and also hosted the 1989 Asian Championships in Athletics.

The stadium went through a modernised renovation for the 2010 Commonwealth Games, and hosted all the track and field events. Because it's in the nation's capital, it often hosts international friendly matches and national football tournaments.

It is a well-equipped grand venue that offers a big stage for players and a comfortable experience for the spectators.

3. Greenfield International Stadium, Kerala

• Capacity: 50,000
• Built in: 2015

The Greenfield International Stadium in Kerala, also known as "The Sports Hub, Trivandrum," can hold 50,000 spectators, which is the 3rd highest in India. It is relatively new and built as a multi-purpose stadium, having top-notch facilities.

The stadium hosted its first international football tournament in 2015 (SAFF Championship). It is mostly known for hosting cricket matches, making it the home ground for the Kerala Cricket Association.

Read Also: Top scorers in ISL history

4. EMS Stadium, Kerala

• Capacity: 50,000
• Built in: 1977

The EMS Stadium in Kozhikode, Kerala, is another multi-purpose stadium that has a capacity of 50,000. It is a very old and precious football venue of the state, famous for its deep connection with local football and drawing of enthusiastic fans.

It is home to the I-League club Gokulam Kerala FC, and has hosted big tournaments like the Super Cup, Santosh Trophy, and the Sait Nagjee Football tournament.

5. DY Patil Stadium, Maharashtra

• Capacity: 45,300
• Built in: 2008

DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai is a spacious and modern multi-purpose sports arena, with a seating capacity of 45,300. While it is also used for cricket and big concerts, it's a very capable football stadium.

It has high-quality seating areas, awesome screens and sound system. The stadium has hosted matches during the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, 2022 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, 2022 AFC Women's Asian Cup and the 2023–24 AFC Champions League.

6. Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kaloor, Kerala

• Capacity: 41,000
• Built in: 1996

This stadium in Kerala holds 41,000 spectators and is famous for its incredibly passionate football fans. It is the home ground for the Kerala Blasters, a popular team in the ISL. 

The energy here during the ISL matches is phenomenal. It is often known to have one of the best football atmospheres in India. This stadium is often picked because of its decent quality and overall experience.

7. Birsa Munda Football Stadium, Jharkhand

• Capacity: 40,000
• Built in: 2009

With a capacity of 40,000, Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Ranchi is a major football hub in Jharkhand. It was opened in 2009, and has hosted many national tournaments with good remarks.

Its unique design makes it look eye-catching. It provides a significant platform for local teams and works to help the sport get bigger!

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Other stadiums with a 40,000 capacity:

• Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• Lal Bahadur Shastri Stadium, Kollam, Kerala
• Mangala Stadium, Mangalore, Karnataka
• Kanchenjunga Stadium, Siliguri, West Bengal

The Indian Super League (ISL) has consistently served as a launch pad for India’s most promising football talent. The ISL 2024-25 season was no different, with young stars lighting up the league and charting the future course of Indian football.

Here are top 5 Indian players to watch in ISL 2025.

Also Read: Highest scoring footballers of the 21st century

Indian Players to Watch in ISL 2025

1. Dippendu Biswas | Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Dippendu Biswas, 21, made 14 appearances in a star-studded MBSG line-up and carved an impact with his defensive contributions, comprising 14 interceptions and victorious tackles each, 42 duels won and 39 recoveries.

He also occasionally delivered upfront; producing a goal and two assists and was named the ISL Emerging Player of the Month for February 2025.

2. Vinith Venkatesh | Bengaluru FC

Bengaluru FC has a track record of producing young talent for the nation. With Gerard Zaragoza in the managerial position, one of the players who made his mark this season is Vinith Venkatesh.

The 19-year-old impressed many with his dribbling and passing ability. A passing accuracy of 80per cent alongside 191 successful passes and 9 successful dribbles in only 602 minutes makes him a great prospect for the Blues’ future. Vinith has not only got a solitary goal and two assists to his name this ISL season but has also scored twice against Mohammedan SC and once against Mohun Bagan in the Durand Cup.

3. Brison Fernandes | FC Goa

Another player that has been a break-out talent this year is Brison Fernandes. From Goa’s under 18 team to being an out right starter, it has been quite a rise for Brison.

Brison has managed to impress with his dribbling and shooting capability scoring seven goals and assisting twice. The 23-year-old created 27 chances for the Gaurs and provided 25 key passes into the final third. With his direct play, the left-winger emerged as one of the most exciting young Indian players to watch this season.

4. Tekcham Abhishek Singh | Punjab FC

In only his second ISL campaign, defender Tekcham Abhishek Singh impressed with returns that saw him become the player with the third-most interceptions (47).

The 20-year-old won seven aerial duels, 17 tackles, 23 clearances, in addition to making 70 recoveries, while forming an impeccable partnership with Nikhil Prabhu, who made the most interceptions in the league in the season gone by (56).

Also Read: Top scorers in ISL history

5. Macarton Louis Nickson | NorthEast United FC

NorthEast United made it to the play-offs after three years, while most of the credits go to its foreign players like Alaaeddine Ajaraie and Nestor Albiach, a player that went under the radar is young midfielder Macarton Nickson.

With 21 appearances and a passing accuracy of 73 per cent, he has really shone under Juan Pedro Benali this season. The 21-year-old has established himself as a box to box midfielder providing both in defence and attack. 

Defensively, Macarton has 97 recoveries and 13 interceptions. In attack as well, he has been able to support by providing 2two goals, one assists and 22 successful dribbles making him a beautiful player to watch.

NorthEast United FC on Friday announced that India international Jithin MS has signed a contract extension with the club, which will keep him with the club until the end of the 2028 season. 

Jithin, 27, joined the club at the start of the 2022-23 season and turned out for the Highlanders 79 times across competitions with 14 goals and 15 assists so far. Jithin, who won the Santosh Trophy with Kerala (2017-18) and multiple I-League titles with Gokulam Kerala (2020-21, 2021-22), has flourished at NorthEast United FC. 

Jithin’s impact reached new heights during the 133rd Durand Cup, where he was awarded the prestigious Golden Ball as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. He scored four goals and provided three assists during the campaign, helping NorthEast United FC lift their first-ever major trophy.

Read Also | Top scorers in ISL history

In the 2024–25 ISL season, Jithin continued to impress with his electrifying pace and flair down the flanks. He was the only Indian player to feature in the league’s top ten for assists, finishing with five. He is sixth on the list of players with the most chances created (41 chances) and is one of the three NorthEast United FC players on the top-10 list, alongside Alaaeddine Ajaraie (52) and Buanthanglun Samte (43).

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“My teammates and the coaching staff have helped me improve a lot, and their support has been instrumental in winning the Golden Ball and earning a call-up to the national team. I’m proud to have achieved these milestones with NorthEast United FC. This club has become home over the past three years, and I’m delighted to continue for another three years,” Jithin said.

“Jithin is an exceptional footballer, one of the best Indian players in his position, and what he has accomplished so far is truly commendable. His rise to becoming an India international is a testament to his relentless hard work, dedication, and hunger to grow every single day. I’m delighted that a player of Jithin’s calibre will continue with us for the next three years,” Juan Pedro Benali, head coach of NorthEast United FC, said.

“Jithin’s journey has been inspiring. His India call-up highlights the dedication and professionalism he brings to the pitch, embodying everything we strive for at NorthEast United FC. He is a key part of our journey, and we’re thrilled to have him with us for three more years,” Mandar Tamhane, CEO, NorthEast United FC, said.

In a major step toward strengthening the integrity of grassroots and youth football in India, the Double Pass Development League (DPDL) has announced the rollout of a comprehensive set of age verification reforms for the upcoming season.

The new regulatory framework is designed to curb age and identity fraud — a growing concern that has undermined the credibility of youth competitions nationwide.

Founded in 2019, the Double Pass Development League (DPDL) is India’s largest AIFF-approved grassroots and youth football league. With operations in multiple cities including Bengaluru, Mumbai and New Delhi, and a partnership with European football development leader Double Pass, DPDL delivers structured, competitive, and long-term development environments for players aged 5 to 18.

The new measures, effective immediately across all DPDL cities, aim to ensure fair participation, safeguard honest academies, and promote age-appropriate player development.

The league, which has operated since 2019 in partnership with Belgium-based Double Pass and is recognised by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), is among the most structured youth football ecosystems in the country.

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Key regulatory updates

• Introduction of the DPDL Digital ID Card
  Each player will now receive a unique DPDL ID card embedded with a photograph, date of birth, verified documents, and a QR code for on-ground verification. This will be scanned at match venues to prevent impersonation and misrepresentation.

• Two-Season Limit Per Age Category
  In a move to ensure players compete at appropriate age levels, individuals will now be allowed to participate in a single age category for a maximum of two seasons. This rule will also take into account participation in past seasons dating back to 2019.

• Independent Age Verification Committee
  An expert panel will be established to evaluate disputed or extreme cases of suspected age discrepancy. The committee will include senior DPDL officials, football association representatives, pediatric specialists, and documentation experts. Where necessary, advanced assessments such as TW3 bone age tests may be recommended.

• Two-Year Ban for Proven Violations
  Teams found guilty of age or identity fraud will face suspension from all DPDL competitions for two consecutive seasons. The league has also stated that coaches or staff complicit in such cases may be subject to further disciplinary measures.

• Standardised Physical Benchmarks for Younger Age Groups
  For the U7, U9, and U11 categories, DPDL will implement height and weight benchmarks defined by pediatric consultants. This step addresses concerns regarding physical dominance in early age groups that may not align with documented age.

“Youth football must be built on the pillars of fairness and integrity,” said Sarthak Dubey, Founder and CEO of DPDL. “These reforms are not just administrative updates — they are essential safeguards to ensure that honest players and ethical academies are protected. We are committed to building a credible and transparent footballing pathway for India.”

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The announcement builds on DPDL’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its integrity framework, following isolated incidents in past seasons where discrepancies in player documentation and eligibility were identified.

In each confirmed case, the league took prompt and appropriate disciplinary action — including point deductions, disqualification from knockout stages, and temporary suspensions of involved personnel — reinforcing its commitment to fair play and accountability.

With the new framework in place, DPDL hopes to set a national benchmark for how youth football leagues across the country address age fraud.

Note: This article has been created from an official press release