Top four players who missed out on Indian football team squad for training camp in Bhubaneswar

These players showed some consistency in ISL 2023-24

The Indian football team will look to bounce back in their remaining 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2027 AFC Asian Cup joint qualifiers against Kuwait and Qatar in June after a couple of disappointing results against Afghanistan in March.

India’s head coach Igor Stimac recently called up 41 probables for the Qualifiers in June who will begin their training in Bhubaneswar very soon. The latest call-up list looks very promising but doesn’t include a few deserving candidates.

On that note, let us take a look at the top 4 players who could have been included in the Indian football team’s Bhubaneswar camp

4. Puitea (Odisha FC)

Puitea also deserved a national team call-up for the kind of performances that he put up in the middle of the park for Odisha FC. He was one of Sergio Lobera’s most trusted lieutenants and worked his socks off for his side. The left-footed midfield maestro has an excellent work rate and a good-looking heat map to show for his efforts. The 26-year-old contributed heavily at the back and made 110 ball recoveries, 22 interceptions, 12 clearances and also won 74 duels while scoring and assisting a goal each.

3. Laldinpuia (Jamshedpur FC)

Laldinpuia had a breakthrough season for Jamshedpur FC and was one of the best defenders in the league. The defender has drawn a lot of attention for his exceptional technical abilities and his rock-solid performances at the back. He has recorded 106 successful duels, 33 aerial duels, 35 tackles, 15 blocks and so much more. His impact extended beyond the backline as he completed 586 passes with an accuracy of 80% and also created seven chances and even scored a goal in the process.

2. Aakash Sangwan (Chennaiyin FC)

The left-back put together one more spectacular season for the Marina Machans. He was possibly their best Indian player throughout the season across all competitions. Akash’s speed, maturity and understanding of the game put him on the list of the best full-backs in the league. Sangwan recorded four goal contributions this season, including an important goal that sealed Chennaiyin FC’s playoff berth.

1. Jayesh Rane (Mumbai City FC)

Jayesh Rane moved to Mumbai City FC on loan from Bengaluru FC but played for the Islanders as if he is predestined to be with them. The attacking midfielder stepped up big time in the middle of the park played with responsibility and composure and was a driving force behind Mumbai’s title run. He filled the absence of Iker Guarrotxena and Yoel Van Nieff with ease and operated perfectly while providing five assists across all competitions.

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