Top five young goalkeepers to watch out for in Calcutta Football League 2024

These goalkeepers will play a crucial role for their sides in Calcutta Football League 2024.

The Calcutta Football League (CFL) started on 25 June and has already seen some exciting matches. Known for unearthing new talent, the league has become a vital platform in Indian football that helps young players get noticed by top clubs across the country.

With the IFA no longer allowing foreign players in the league, Indian footballers now have more opportunities to shine in the Calcutta Football League.

Goalkeepers play a crucial role in football as they provide the last line of defence and also lead the backline. Through the years, many young goalkeepers have shown immense potential in the Calcutta Football League.

Here, we highlight the top five young goalkeepers to watch out for in the Calcutta Football League 2024 season:

5. Nandan Roy (Mohun Bagan)

At just 16, Nandan Roy is one of the most exciting young goalkeeping prospects in India. Emerging from Mohun Bagan’s youth academy, he has recently been selected in the probables for the Indian U-17 national team squad ahead of the U-17 SAFF Men’s Championship 2024.

He is known for his quick reflexes and composure under pressure. Roy has also been a standout performer in the youth setup and will be eager to make the most of his opportunities in the Calcutta Football League 2024.

4. Aditya Patra (East Bengal)

Representing East Bengal, Aditya Patra was one of the best goalkeepers in the Calcutta Football League last year. This year too, he will aim to lead his team with the same dominance. The club have also recently announced that he will be the reserve team captain for the 2024 season.

Aditya previously played for Bengaluru FC and was part of the squad that won the ISL 2018-19 season. He will look to repeat last season’s heroics and confirm his spot in East Bengal’s main team for the upcoming ISL season.

3. Subhajit Bhattacharjee (Mohammedan SC)

Subhajit Bhattacharjee has joined Mohammedan SC ahead of the current CFL season. The 22-year-old brings with him the reputation as one of the top goalkeeping prospects. Subhajit made his I-League debut last season with Churchill Brothers and has also played for East Bengal in the past.

His addition to Mohammedan SC is expected to strengthen their defence, making him a key player to watch in CFL 2024.

2. Sachin Jha (Southern Samity)

A recent signing for Southern Samity in the ongoing CFL, Sachin Jha is a 24-year-old goalkeeper who has experience playing at clubs like Rajasthan United and Sudeva Delhi.

His outstanding performances in the Reliance Foundation Development League 2023 helped him win the Golden Glove award. Sachin’s presence between the posts will be vital for Southern Samity as they aim to make a mark in this season’s CFL. 

1. Syed Zahid Bukhari (Mohun Bagan)

Hailing from Kashmir, Syed Zahid Bukhari has quickly risen through the ranks to become a key player on the Indian football circuit. Before making his move to Mohun Bagan in January 2023, Zahid showcased his potential at Indian Arrows, where he made 18 league appearances.

His impressive performances include being part of the SAFF U-20 Championship-winning team in 2022 and starting all three matches for India at the AFC U-20 Asian Cup 2023 Qualifiers. Zahid’s role will be crucial for Mohun Bagan in CFL 2024, as his abilities between the sticks are expected to be a significant factor in the team’s success.

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