After losing to Singapore at home, Indian Football Team hopes of qualifying for the main stage of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 are virtually over. The Blue Tigers will next face Bangladesh in Dhaka on November 27 in what is now merely a formality. However, head coach Khalid Jamil is treating this “dead rubber” as an opportunity to shape the next generation of Indian footballers. On Wednesday, he announced a 23-member probable squad with a strong emphasis on youth.
বাংলাদেশের বিপক্ষে সম্ভাব্য দলে নেই এই তারকা, সুযোগ ১ বাংলার ফুটবলারের
The biggest talking point is the absence of legendary striker Sunil Chhetri. For the first time in years, India will take the field without their long-time talisman. Jamil explained that the decision was made to give younger players a chance, keeping the future in mind. Sources suggest that Chhetri himself is no longer interested in representing the national team and believes it’s time to pass the baton to the next generation. It is rumored that he may soon officially announce his second retirement from international football.
Among the seniors, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Sandesh Jhingan have been retained to provide balance and guidance to the youngsters. Interestingly, no Mohun Bagan players have been included — a significant move that has drawn attention, especially since regulars like Subhasish Bose are missing.
Among the young guns, Rahim Ali stands out as the only player from Bengal. He scored for India in their away match against Singapore and will be key in attack against Bangladesh. Meanwhile, Mohammed Sanan, currently with the U-23 side, is expected to join the senior squad later.
The team also includes promising talents such as Akash Mishra, Anwar Ali, Ashique Kuruniyan, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Lallianzuala Chhangte, and Vikram Partap Singh — all viewed as the future of Indian football.
Though India’s Asian Cup dream is over, Jamil sees this match as a “new beginning.” The game in Dhaka will be a valuable test for India’s young stars to adapt to the demands of international football. How well the Chhetri-less side performs will be closely watched.
India’s Probable Squad:
#BlueTigers head coach Khalid Jamil has named 23 probables for the November FIFA International Match Window 🐯🇮🇳
More details 🔗 https://t.co/oDsmVEFAlG#ACQ2027 #IndianFootball ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/dCtmcpIeGl
— Indian Football (@IndianFootball) November 5, 2025