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Will Indian-Origin players ever get to play for India? AIFF keeps showing its aimless approach

AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey has recently opened up regarding the possibility of Indian-Origin players playing for India, but Indian football fans have criticized AIFF's lackluster approach.

Mar 23, 2025, 12:07 PM9 min read

Will Indian-Origin players ever get to play for India? AIFF keeps showing its aimless approach-sportzpoint.com
(Image Source | X)

All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Kalyan Chaubey has again commented on the plan to integrate Indian-origin footballers into the Indian national football team.

Describing the move as a potential "game-changer" for Indian football, Cahaubey stated that the AIFF is "actively working" to explore the feasibility of this plan.

However, Chaubey first addressed this issue which dates back to 2023, when he stated that AIFF is "looking to approach" 24 PIO (Persons of Indian Origin) players, who could represent the national team. Although the AIFF chief did not reveal the players' names back then, there have been no updates regarding the approach as well.

Convincingly, Indian football fans have been fuming over these lackluster and aimless plans from AIFF which have not been materialized yet. This is why what Chaubey said to PTI on Thursday, has sparked further dissatisfaction among Indian football fans. 

"Making efforts to create": Does AIFF actually have a plan?

We dream of reviving the glory days of Indian Football,' says Kalyan Chaubey  at launch of 'Vision 2047'
(Image Credit | AIFF)

Speaking to PTI, Chaubey has stated the following on the sidelines of the Khelo India Para Games 2025 in New Delhi.

We are making efforts to create a policy framework that allows us to utilise the talent of overseas Indian-origin (OCA) players,

Many countries have already done this, and until we establish clear guidelines, our national team selection will continue to follow existing rules. However, we must recognise that integrating these players could be a game-changer for Indian football.

At present, we are depending on a single player like Sunil Chhetri in crucial moments. The question remains -- who will take his place? We need a long-term plan to develop Indian strikers, especially for the No. 9 and No. 10 positions.

Currently, most clubs prefer foreign strikers in these roles, which hampers the growth of Indian forwards. Our aim is to change that by creating better pathways for our players,

Chaubey's comments have not encouraged Indian football fans much, especially since the AIFF is still 'developing' a policy for OCA players.

In contrast, neighboring country Bangladesh has already landed midfielder Hamza Choudhary, who has represented England at the youth level and has played for Leicester City in the Premier League. He is currently on loan at Sheffield United, which competes in the EFL Championship.

Previous instances regarding the possibility of OCI and PIO players representing India

Michael Chopra: 'I'm wanted at Blackpool' - Sports Mole
Micheal Chopra during his time at Ipswich Town.

When Englishman Bob Houghton served as the head coach of the Indian national football team from 2006 to 2011, there were attempts to reach out to Michael Chopra.

Chopra had previously played for England's youth teams and for clubs such as Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, to see if he would be interested in representing India.

However, a government rule implemented in 2008 thrashed any hopes of including players of Indian origin (PIO) in the national squad. This rule stipulated that PIO and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders must renounce their foreign citizenship and obtain Indian passports to be eligible to play for India.

Read Also | Top 10 Indian-origin footballers who could represent India, if OCI and PIO players were permitted

In 2020, Indian Origin player Aryn Williams, who played for NEROCA FC in 2017-19, shared his story on why he gave up the dreams of representing the Indian National Team. The midfielder, who represented Australia at senior levels, said the following.

That was my ultimate goal, to get an Indian passport and go to the national team, But when I arrived, it just proved to be an impossible task. I went through many agencies and companies but nobody really knew what to do. It was making me stressed so in the end I left it. 

Yan Dhanda, another Indian-origin footballer who previously played for Liverpool in the youth divisions and was also a part of the England U-17 team that won the UEFA U-17 EURO Championship in 2017; expressed his hopes to play for India as a dual citizen. 

Dhanda wrote the following on X (Twitter) in response to the then-AIFF secretary-general Dr. Shaji Prabhakaran.

Giving up my passport means I can’t play professionally in the UK and some European clubs, due to India’s FIFA ranking. Permitting OCI cards, similar to other countries, will allow me to represent the Indian football team as a dual national. I hope this can happen soon

Back in August 2023, AIFF formulated a task force to conduct a feasibility study of allowing Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) to play in the country's national teams.

Image
Official statement of the task force formulation. (Image Source | X)

The task force, which was constituted by Kalyan Chaubey was supposed to explore and analyze the PIO and OCI footballers playing at a higher level and the status of the youth players of the same. It was chaired by Punjab Football Association president Samir Thapar

Chaubey said this in a press release:

The Task Force's primary objective will be to collect data on footballers who are either Overseas Citizens of India or Persons of Indian Origin. It is a matter of great pride for us that many such footballers are playing in different countries with distinction and have made a name for themselves in the tough world of professional football.

However, its report was supposed to be submitted by January 31, 2024. In December 2023, AIFF confirmed that they are approaching 24 PIO players soon. Chaubey told the following to PTI in an interview:

We are looking to approach 24 PIO players who are playing across the world. But you know there is the issue of dual citizenship (not being permitted to play for India). So, we have to see how this can be done within the framework of the Central Government’s rules,

We are having internal discussions on the matter and will come out with more details once more clarity is established.

Former Indian coach Igor Stimac had strongly advocated multiple times for the inclusion of OCI and PIO players into the national team. Post his sacking, Stimac summed up the situation via his comments. He stated:

India’s football is in prisons. No involvement of OCI players. Without PIO/OCI, football development in India is going to be difficult. It’ll take at least two decades to develop world-class players from India.

I’m not sure if there is any other country which is not allowing players of their origin to represent their country.” 

It is a huge handicap because there are many good players of Indian origin playing in the top leagues of Europe. So it could be a big help if we speak about bigger achievements.

The Pathways for OCI Card Holders to represent India

(The following are extracted from an article by Legal World-Economic Times

FIFA regulations state that a player must hold the passport of the country they represent. The Commentary on the Rules Governing Eligibility to Play for Representative Teams published by FIFA also mentions that:

"The only document considered to be valid proof of a player's identity and nationality shall be a permanent international passport that explicitly, and in Latin characters, states the player's full name, date of birth, place of birth and nationality".

Furthermore, the FIFA regulations for the World Cup 2022 state that "A player without a valid permanent international passport shall not be entitled to play."

A country's policy regarding dual or multiple citizenship is associated with its policy regarding eligibility criteria for athletes. Athletes representing a country that has dual or multiple citizenship are generally permitted to play on their teams and by their names. Australia, Brazil, France, the United States, the United Kingdom, and South Africa are some of the countries that embrace dual citizenship. An athlete has to forgo their existing nationality and seek naturalization in the nation they wish to represent in nations that do not accept dual nationality, such as India.

All those persons who were born in India or whose parents were born in India are entitled to Indian citizenship as per the provisions of the Indian Constitution. Other requirements of acquiring, determining, and withdrawing Indian citizenship are stated in the Citizenship Act of 1955. But dual citizenship is not allowed under the Citizenship Act of 1955.

As per Section 9 of the Citizenship Act, a person who has acquired citizenship of some other country cannot be a citizen of India unless he relinquishes his citizenship in that country by making a declaration in a proper format. In addition, no Indian national can acquire citizenship of any foreign nation freely, as stated by Article 9 of the Indian Constitution.

The Indian government takes a firm stance on citizenship restrictions, which prohibit dual citizenship. Unless there is a drastic change in policy, only Indian citizens would be eligible to represent the country in international tournaments. Regardless of ability, every OCI or PIO card holder is ineligible.

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I-League winners since 2007-08

Inter Kashi were on Friday declared I-League 2024-25 champions after the Switzerland-based Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected the All India Football Federation's (AIFF) Appeal Committee's decision.

Jul 18, 2025, 2:19 PM3 min read

I-League winners since 2007-08 | sportzpoint.com
Image | Inter Kashi on X

I-League, the second tier of Indian Football, was once the top-tier football league of the country, before the Indian Super League (ISL) replaced it. From 1996 to the 2006-07 season, the league was named the National Football League, and from 2007-08, it was rebranded as the I-League. 

The league operates on a relegation and promotion system with I-League 2 and a first-only promotion system with the ISL, from the 2022–23 season. This means the I-League winners get a promotion to the Indian Super League, whereas the bottom team gets relegated to I-League 2. 

Since the rebranding of the league, Dempo SC have won the league most times (3). Churchill Brothers, Mohun Bagan, Bengaluru and Gokulam Kerala have won the league twice.

Read Also | Top 5 Indian Players to Watch in ISL 2025

I-League winners since 2007-08 | sportzpoint.com

Inter Kashi were on Friday declared I-League 2024-25 champions after the Switzerland-based Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected the All India Football Federation's (AIFF) Appeal Committee's decision of awarding the title to Churchill Brothers of Goa. 

This made Inter Kashi only the third team to get promoted from I-League to ISL, after Punjab FC (RoundGlass Punjab), Mohammedan Sporting.

Read Also | Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India

Why was there confusion about announcing the I-League 2024-25 winners?

On 31st May 2025, the AIFF announced Churchill Brothers as the I-League 2024-25 champions after its Appeal Committee ruled against Inter Kashi in a matter related to the fielding of an 'ineligible player'. Inter Kashi finished as the runners-up after getting two points deducted. 

However, Inter Kashi filed an appeal against AIFF's decision on 4 June 2025.  On 18th July 2025, the Switzerland-based Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) asked the AIFF to reverse its decision of awarding the 2024-25 season title to Churchill Brothers.

Inter Kashi thus now have won the I-League in their second season in Indian Football. 

Read Also | 5 memorable performances by Indian football teams in Asian competitions

Clubs promoted to ISL from I-League

Season Champions
2022–23 RoundGlass Punjab
2023–24 Mohammedan
2024–25 Inter Kashi

I-League winners since 2007-08

Season Champions Runners-up Third Place Teams
2007–08 Dempo Churchill Brothers JCT 10
2008–09 Churchill Brothers Mohun Bagan Sporting Goa 12
2009–10 Dempo (2) Churchill Brothers Pune 14
2010–11 Salgaocar East Bengal Dempo 14
2011–12 Dempo (3) East Bengal Churchill Brothers 14
2012–13 Churchill Brothers (2) Pune East Bengal 14
2013–14 Bengaluru East Bengal Salgaocar 13
2014–15 Mohun Bagan Bengaluru Royal Wahingdoh 11
2015–16 Bengaluru (2) Mohun Bagan East Bengal 9
2016–17 Aizawl Mohun Bagan East Bengal 10
2017–18 Minerva Punjab NEROCA Mohun Bagan 10
2018–19 Chennai City East Bengal Real Kashmir 11
2019–20 Mohun Bagan (2) Not Awarded 11
2020–21 Gokulam Kerala Churchill Brothers TRAU 11
2021–22 Gokulam Kerala (2) Mohammedan Sreenidi Deccan 13
2022–23 RoundGlass Punjab Sreenidi Deccan Gokulam Kerala 12
2023–24 Mohammedan Sreenidi Deccan Gokulam Kerala 13
2024–25 Inter Kashi Churchill Brothers Real Kashmir 12

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“Everybody in the Indian football ecosystem is worried,” Sunil Chhetri says the current state of Indian football is deeply concerning

Sunil Chhetri has expressed deep concern over the suspension of the Indian Super League and the future of India's footballing ecosystem.

Jul 16, 2025, 9:00 AM3 min read

“Everybody in the Indian football ecosystem is worried,” Sunil Chhetri says the current state of Indian football is deeply concerning

Former Indian national football team captain Sunil Chhetri has expressed deep concern over the suspension of the Indian Super League and the future of India's footballing ecosystem.

Also Read: Jude Bellingham to miss twelve weeks after shoulder surgery in London

“The current situation that Indian football finds itself in, is very concerning. I’ve received a flurry of texts from players, staff members, physios, masseurs - not just from my club, but from other clubs as well,” Chhetri wrote on his social media handle X (formerly Twitter).

Worried about the future - Chhetri 

Chhetri, who plays for Bengaluru FC in the ISL, wrote on social media, “I’ve received a flurry of texts from players, staff members, physios, masseurs – not just from my club, but from other clubs as well.

“Everybody in the Indian football ecosystem is worried, hurt, scared about the uncertainty we are faced with,” he added.

There is no new agreement between AIFF and FSDL

The 2025-26 season of the ISL has been put 'on hold' as the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and organising company Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) has not been renewed yet.

The Supreme Court has directed the AIFF not to enter into any new agreement with FSDL until a final decision is taken on the AIFF.

A 15-year agreement was signed in 2010

A 15-year agreement between FSDL and AIFF was signed in 2010, under which FSDL pays Rs 50 crore every year to AIFF in return for the rights to broadcast, manage and promote Indian football (including ISL and the national team).

Please stay calm - Chhetri

Sunil Chhetri appealed to all the players and support staff to maintain patience and support each other. He expressed confidence that football will resume soon. The AIFF has also said that it understands the importance of ISL, but it is compelled to follow the court's order.

Also Read: Who is Olivia Smith? Arsenal are ready to pay the most expensive transfer fee for her

“I may not have all the answers, but my message to all those involved with Indian football – and more importantly the ones whose livelihood depends on it, the players, staff, kitmen, masseurs, medical teams, production crews, operations staff – please stay calm.”

“We’ll ride this storm together. Stick together and look out for each other. Keep training and getting better. Football has to resume soon. It will,” Sunil Chhetri shared.

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Indian Men's Football Team Drops 6 Places to 133rd, Lowest FIFA Ranking in 9 Years

The Indian men's football team dropped 6 rankings lower to 133 in the lastest FIFA World ranking update. Get the full story behind this significant dip the national squad.

Jul 12, 2025, 11:44 AM3 min read

Indian Men's Football Team Drops 6 Places to 133rd, Lowest FIFA Ranking in 9 Years | sportzpoint.com

The latest update of FIFA Men's World Ranking, released on July 10, 2025, brings in disappointing news for Indian football fans. It revealed that the Indian men's football team dropped 6 rankings to 133, putting them at the lowest standing in nine years (since 2016).

The team currently has 1113 rating points, positioned right below Congo and above Central Africa. But what exactly caused this dip for the Blue Tigers?

Let's dive into the details and reasoning behind the rank drop of the Indian men's football team.

Read Also: Best Indian Football Stadiums – Ranked by Capacity

Indian men's football team dropped 6 rankings to 133: What could be the reason?

Indian Men's Football team dropped 6 rankings lower to 133 | sportzpoint.com
The Indian men's football team practicing before the football friendly against Thailand in June'25. Image | The Bridge

Exactly a month before the FIFA World Ranking was released, the Indian men's football team faced a humiliating defeat of 0-1 against lower-ranked Hong Kong, in the Asian Cup qualification round match (on 10 June, 2025).

They had a momentum break before this qualification match, as they lost to Thailand (0-2) in an international friendly on June 4. Despite hosting intensive training camps and sessions, nothing worked for the team.

After a disastrous year in 2024, where the Indian men's football team did not win a single match, leading to a poor Asian Cup campaign and crashing out of FIFA World Cup qualification, the streak continued even in this year. Out of the four matches played this year, they won one, drew another, and lost two.

India recorded only a single win in 8 matches played under Marquez, which came in a friendly against the Maldives in March.

These results directly led to the rumours of the head coach's resignation, which culminated in Manolo Marquez's departure from the AIFF earlier this month (2 July, 2025).

Read Also: How can Indian Women's Football team qualify for the 2027 FIFA World Cup?

India's lowest ranking since 2016

Indian Men's Football Team Drops 6 Places to 133rd, Lowest FIFA Ranking in 9 Years | sportzpoint.com

Indian men's football team's best ranking was recorded in February 1996, when they found themselves at 94. In contrast, their lowest was recorded in March 2015, with 173rd rank in the charts.

The latest FIFA World Ranking update placed India at 133, following their disappointing performances in 2024-25. The last time India had a worse ranking was in 2016, placed at 135.

The above-mentioned performances and results are the sole reason why the Indian men's football team dropped 6 rankings to 133.

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How can Indian Women's Football team qualify for the 2027 FIFA World Cup?

Good news for India! With the recent qualification for the AFC Asian Cup, the dream is alive for the Indian women's football team. How can Indian women's football team qualify for the 2027 FIFA World Cup? Explore their path and details here.

Jul 7, 2025, 12:19 PM3 min read

How can Indian Women's Football team qualify for FIFA World Cup? | sportzpoint.com

The ultimate dream for any footballing nation is to compete on the biggest stage like the World Cup, and for Indian women's football team, the dream feels closer now.

On July 5, 2025, India secured AFC Women's Asian Cup qualification with a 2-1 victory over Thailand. The sensational midfielder from Bengal, Sangita Basfore scored both the goals to seal this historic win for the nation!

This crucial win, added to their strong performances againsy Mongolia, Timor-Leste, and Iraq, marked their return to the Asian Cup after 22 years. This success has now fueled the high hopes and big dream of reaching the FIFA Women's World Cup.

Now the question is: How can Indian Women's Football team qualify for the 2027 FIFA World Cup? Let's explore the details below.

Read Also: Best 10 Women's Footballers in the World Right Now

Why does AFC Asian Cup qualification matter?

How can Indian Women's Football team qualify for FIFA World Cup? | sportzpoint.com
The AFC Women's Asian Cup. Image | Hindustan Times

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is the regional body for football in Asia, operating under FIFA. Crucially, the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 isn't just a continental championship; it's Asia's direct qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

For 2027, Asia gets six direct World Cup spots and two additional play-off chances. This means performing well in this tournament is absolutely vital for India's World Cup dreams.

They will have to fight for the World Cup spot against 11 nations (7 other qualifying nations from 2025, the host Australia, and the top 3 teams from the previous 2022 edition).

Teams qualified alongside India in 2025 Asian Cup qualifiers:

  1. Bangladesh
  2. Phillipines
  3. Vietnam
  4. Chinese Taipei
  5. North Korea
  6. Uzbekistan
  7. TBD

The Top 3 teams of 2022 edition:

  1. China (Champions)
  2. South Korea (Runners-up)
  3. Japan (Third place)

Read Also: Best Indian Football Stadiums – Ranked by Capacity

India's qualification roadmap for the 2027 FIFA World Cup

How can Indian Women's Football team qualify for FIFA World Cup? | sportzpoint.com
Winning moments from the decisive match against Thailand in Asian Cup qualifiers. Image | X

To reach the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, India's performance at the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 is everything.

Here's how they can make it possible:

  • Reach the semi-finals: This is the clearest path for qualification as all four semi-finalists in the Asian Cup will automatically be eligible to qualify for WC.
  • In case they don't reach semi-finals: If India reaches the quarter-finals but loses, there's still a chance. The losing teams will play additional matches against each other for the remaining two direct World Cup spots and the two play-off berths.

In short, India must aim to be among the top six teams in the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 to have a direct shot at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

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Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India

Discover the most promising U-21 footballers in India who are set to define the future of Indian football. Know about their current status and journeys.

Jul 4, 2025, 6:45 PM7 min read

Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com

The dynamic landscape of Indian football is on the cusp of a new era and set to be carried forward by a generation of young talent. Finding the most promising U-21 footballers in India is the key, as they are the ones who will decide where we stand next.

Let's take a look at some special youngsters who are not only catching the eye of coaches, but are also inspiring the youth with their skill, dedication and ambition.

Suhail Ahmad Bhat (20 years)

Suhail Ahmad Bhat is one among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Suhail Ahmad Bhat practicing with the Blue Tigers. Image | Facebook
  • Born: 8 April 2005, Jammu and Kashmir
  • Position: Centre-Forward
  • Current team: Mohun Bagan SG

Suhail Ahmad Bhat is a 20-year-old promising young talent, who has quickly become a name to watch in Indian football. He made his mark with the Indian Arrows, and his progress led him to Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

He has consistently proved his ability to find the net and did well across various competitions like the Durand Cup, CFL, and Super Cup. His journey began with early recognition, even being featured by The Guardian as one of the best young talents globally born in 2005.

Suhail already represented India in U-16 (where he scored on his debut match) and U-23 level. He also recently got called up for the senior India national team and debuted in 2025.

Read Also: Top scorers in ISL history

Joseph Sunny (21 years)

Joseph Sunny is among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Joseph Sunny captured between practice sessions for Hyderabad FC. Image | X
  • Born: 13 October 2003, Kerala
  • Position: Forward
  • Current team: Hyderabad FC 

Joseph Sunny is a tall attacking striker who has emerged as a key player for Hyderabad FC. His strength lies in his style of play, which turns out to be really impactful for the team. He played in tournaments like the Kalinga Super Cup and I-League and made his ISL debut in the 2023-24 season.

Sunny has made his deserving spot in the playing XI for Hyderabad, featuring in most of their matches. His ISL performances highlighted his eagerness to contribute to the team and also his rising stature.

Korou Singh Thingujam (18 years)

Korou Singh Thingujam is among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Korou Singh Thingujam playing for Kerala Blasters in ISL. Image | Instagram
  • Born: 3 December 2006, Manipur
  • Position: Second Striker, Right Winger
  • Current Team: Kerala Blasters FC

Korou Singh Thingujam has rapidly risen through the ranks at Kerala Blasters FC, showcasing exceptional skill as a second striker. He initially made an impact by scoring on his debut with the reserve team, and then quickly earned his spot in the senior team.

His ISL debut in 2024 made him one of the youngest players to do so. He also got an extension of contract for Kerala Blasters till 2029, which highlights the team's faith in his abilities.

Korou was a part of the Indian U-17 team that won the 2022 SAFF U-17 Championship, and even scored in the final. He also got to play for the U-20 side in 2024, scoring 1 goal in 5 appearances.

Mohammed Sanan (21 years)

Mohammed Sanan is among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Mohammed Sanan playing for Jamshedpur FC in ISL. Image | Instagram
  • Born: 5 April 2004, Kerala
  • Position: Left Winger
  • Current Team: Jamshedpur FC

Mohammed Sanan is a talented young left-winger, who emerged from the Reliance Foundation Young Champs' (RFYC) academy. His strong foundation saw him get a long-term deal with Jamshedpur FC.

Sanan quickly made his way to the senior team, starting with the Durand Cup and later making it to the ISL. He is the most reliable young performer in the team, who also appeared in two games for the India U-23 team in his international career.

Read Also: Top 5 Indian Players to Watch in ISL 2025

Bikash Yumnam (21 years)

Bikash Yumnam is among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Bikash Yumnam in ISL. Image | Instagram
  • Born: 6 September 2003, Manipur
  • Position: Centre Back
  • Current team: Kerala Blasters FC

Bikash Yumnam is a 21-year-old solid centre-back who has established himself as a decent defensive presence. He has gained experience playing for clubs like Chennaiyin FC and Punjab FC, before joining Kerala Blasters FC

He seems to constantly develop his game, along with focusing on positioning, tackling, and aerial abilities.

Bikash was a part of the 2022 SAFF U-20 Championship winning squad of India and was also a part of the U-16 team that reached the quarterfinals of the 2018 AFC U-18 Championship in Malaysia.

Tekcham Abhishek Singh (20 years)

Tekcham Abhishek Singh is among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Tekcham Abhishek Singh playing for Punjab FC. Image | Transfermarkt
  • Born: 2 January 2005, Manipur
  • Position: Left back
  • Current team: Punjab FC

Tekcham Abhishek Singh is a highly praised left-back, known for his defensive solidity and energetic run. His journey began at Minerva Academy, from where he moved to Punjab FC and became a crucial part of the team.

Abhishek's impressive ISL performance led to a tug-of-war between major Kolkata clubs for his signature, ultimately leading his move to Mohun Bagan SG. He will soon be joining their side and will continue to play brilliant football.

After playing for the U-20 and U-23 Indian teams, he got a call-up to the senior national team under coach Manolo Marquez. He has already made his debut with the team and has a long way to go.

Nikhil Barla (21 years)

Nikhil Barla is among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Nikhil Barla in ISL. Image | X
  • Born: 5 August 2003, Jharkhand
  • Position: Right Back
  • Current team: Jamshedpur FC

Nikhil Barla is a 21-year-old emerging talent who trained at the prestigious TATA Football Academy. He began his journey with Jamshedpur FC's youth and reserve teams, where he worked tremendously hard to transition into the senior squad.

Barla quickly became an integral part of their defence and gained significant experience playing in the ISL. This hardworking boy is steadily climbing towards his dream with immense discipline and dedication.

His consistent performance earned him a place in India's U-23 probable squad, and there's more to come!

Read Also: Manolo Marquez likely to step down as Indian Football team coach

Vinith Venkatesh (19 years)

Vinith Venkatesh is among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Vinith Venkatesh celebrates a goal for Bengaluru FC. Image | NDTV Sports
  • Born: 31 July 2005, Bengaluru
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Current team: Bengaluru FC

Vinith Venkatesh made his senior debut in the 2024 Durand Cup for Bengaluru FC, where he also scored against Mohun Bagan SG in the semi-finals. He made his ISL debut in the same year, potentially growing his skills while playing alongside experienced footballers.

Bengaluru FC is a club known for youth development, and the inclusion of a talented youngster like Vinith makes the vision for the future even brighter. As a midfielder, he contributes to ball distribution, tackling, and both offensive and defensive transitions.

Sahil Poonia (19 years)

Sahil Poonia is among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Sahil Poonia in his debut ISL match for Bengaluru FC. Image | Instagram
  • Born: 8 March 2006, Haryana
  • Position: Goalkeeper
  • Current team: Bengaluru FC

Sahil Poonia is another 19-year-old young talent who represents Bengaluru FC as a goalkeeper. He hails from Haryana and has worked really hard to come his far and keep up with the dynamic football world. 

Poonia has already featured for India at various youth levels, including U-17, U-20, and U-23 teams, which is a strong indicator of his potential as a future national team goalkeeper.

Singamayum Shami (18 years)

Singamayum Shami is among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Singamayum Shami in ISL. Image | Cricketnmore
  • Born: 18 April 2007, Manipur
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Current team: Punjab FC

Singamayum Shami is a highly exciting attacking midfielder for Punjab FC. He swiftly made his mark in his flourishing career and became the youngest goalscorer in the history of ISL (at 17 years) in 2025. 

Shami had an exceptional ability to handle pressure and even score at those times. He was a part of the India U-20 team that won the SAFF U-20 Championship in 2025. Not only was he a key part of the team, but also earned the most valuable player award of the tournament.

Read Also: Is 2025 the miraculous year in sports history?

Gurnaj Singh Grewal (18 years)

Gurnaj Singh Grewal is among the Most Promising U-21 Footballers in India | sportzpoint.com
Gurnaj Singh Grewal representing East Bengal. Image | X
  • Born: 9 January 2007, Punjab
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Current team: East Bengal FC

Gurnaj Singh Grewal is a promising midfielder who has been a part of the youth setup at East Bengal FC. He has an amazing ability to control the tempo of the game and initiate offensive plays.

He has contributed to East Bengal's reserve squad, contributing to their success, including winning the Calcutta Football League 2024-25. Internationally, he represented India at the U-17 and U-19 levels and was a part of the SAFF U-19 Championship-winning squad. 

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