India Announce Squad Ahead of March International Window; Sunil Chhetri Returns, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu Dropped
Indian National football team’s Head coach Manolo Marquez announced his 26-member squad for the upcoming March FIFA window, which includes an International friendly against Maldives and the crucial 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers against Bangladesh.
The most prominent inclusion is that of veteran striker Sunil Chhetri, who comes out of his international retirement which he had announced in June last year. Sunil Chhetri is now set to make a return for the Blue Tigers in the upcoming fixtures which will give a huge boost to the squad. Chhetri’s experience and leadership will be vital for India as they navigate these important fixtures.
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Talking about this crucial decision Coach Manolo Márquez stated, “The qualification for the Asian Cup is very crucial for us. Given the importance of the tournament and the matches ahead, I discussed with Sunil Chhetri about making a comeback to strengthen the National Team. He agreed, and so we have included him in the squad.”
However, there have also been notable omissions which include established players such as goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, midfielders Anirudh Thapa, Nandakumar Shekhar, Sahal Abdul Samad, forwards Vikram Partap Singh and many more notable names. Additionally, defender Nikhil Poojary as well as Anwar will not join the team due to their recent injuries in the ongoing Indian Super League. (ISL)
Although the Indian football team have failed to win any game in the year 2024, all eyes will be on Manolo Marquez and his men as they look to bounce back under their leader and legend Sunil Chhetri.
India’s 26-member squad for March 2025 FIFA International Window
Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurmeet Singh, Vishal Kaith.
Defenders: Asish Rai, Boris Singh Thangjam, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Hmingthanmawia, Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, Roshan Singh, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose.
Midfielders: Ashique Kuruniyan, Ayush Dev Chhetri, Brandon Fernandes, Brison Fernandes, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Lalengmawia, Liston Colaco, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Suresh Singh Wangjam.
Forwards: Sunil Chhetri, Farukh Choudhary, Irfan Yadwad, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh.
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