Indian football is gearing up for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers with a blend of experience and fresh talent as veteran Sunil Chhetri makes a return to the national team. Head coach Khalid Jamil has announced a 30-player probables squad for the crucial qualifying matches against Singapore, scheduled for October.
Chhetri's return marks a significant boost for the Blue Tigers. The 40-year-old had previously retired from international football in June 2024 but has reversed his decision to contribute to India's campaign in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers. Chhetri's experience and leadership are expected to be invaluable as India prepares for the back-to-back fixtures against Singapore. He is India's all-time leading goal scorer with 94 goals in 151 appearances.
Coach Khalid Jamil had earlier omitted Chhetri from the CAFA Nations Cup squad to experiment with new players. However, he affirmed that the doors to the national team would always remain open for the veteran striker. Jamil's decision to recall Chhetri highlights the importance of experience alongside the infusion of youth in the squad.
The 30-member probables squad reflects Jamil's aim to strike a balance between seasoned players and promising youngsters. Several U23 players who impressed in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers have been included, such as Muhammed Suhail, Mohammed Sanan, Bikash Yumnam, and Macarton Louis Nickson.
The preparatory camp is set to commence in Bengaluru on September 20, with players reporting a day earlier. Players from Mohun Bagan SG and FC Goa will join the camp later due to their AFC Champions League Two commitments. In addition to the 30 probables, five players have been named on standby, with their names to be announced separately.
The selected squad will participate in two back-to-back matches against Singapore in Group C of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round. The first match is scheduled for October 9 at the National Stadium in Singapore, followed by the second match on October 14 at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Margao.
The 30-member probables squad:
Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurmeet Singh, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.
Defenders: Anwar Ali, Bikash Yumnam, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Muhammed Uvais, Pramveer, Rahul Bheke, Ricky Meetei Haobam, Roshan Singh Naorem.
Midfielders: Ashique Kuruniyan, Danish Farooq Bhat, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Jithin MS, Macarton Louis Nickson, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Mohammed Aimen, Nikhil Prabhu, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Vibin Mohanan.
Forwards: Irfan Yadwad, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh (jr), Mohammed Sanan K, Muhammed Suhail, Parthib Gogoi, Sunil Chhetri, Vikram Partap Singh.
Veteran defender Sandesh Jhingan will miss out due to an injury sustained during the CAFA Nations Cup. India finished third in the CAFA Nations Cup after defeating Oman in penalties. Jamil's tenure as head coach began with this bronze medal, offering encouragement amidst administrative uncertainty surrounding Indian football.
