How Vibin Mohanan & Jithin MS can add much-needed fresh dimension to Indian football team

The two new faces are set to impress in their first International outing.

Indian National Football Team have announced a 26-man squad for their international friendly against Malaysia. The fixture will be played at the GMC Balayogi Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad on 18 November during the international break.

Manolo Marquez’s selection involves some new faces who have consistently impressed during the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season.

Two of the notable additions to the squad by the head coach, set to make their international debuts, are NorthEast United’s Jithin MS and Kerala Blasters’ Vibin Mohanan. The Malayali duo brings double delight to Kerala, upholding the state’s rich football heritage.

Jithin MS

Jithin MS is one of the most anticipated and justified selections by Manolo Marquez. The winger has been a consistent starter for his club and played a pivotal role in securing the Highlanders’ first-ever title in the 2024 Durand Cup.

His standout performance, tallying four goals and three assists, earned him the Golden Ball in the tournament. He has successfully carried his form into the ISL season, already registering three assists in seven appearances.

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What Jithin brings to the national team goes beyond just his goals and assist tally. Juan Pedro Benali’s trusted winger has been explosive on the flanks, creating scoring opportunities out of nowhere. His dribbling prowess and decision-making up front will add a new dimension to the Blue Tigers’ attack.

In addition, his accurate crosses into the box, creativity on the flanks, and precision pass to find teammates in open spaces will help to rejuvenate an Indian attack that has otherwise, been lifeless throughout the year. His tireless work rate will be a bonus.

Vibin Mohanan

Rising through the ranks of the Kerala Blasters academy to reach professional football, this call-up will be a proud milestone in Vibin Mohanan’s career.

The 21-year-old midfielder has been lively in the middle of the park for the Blasters, showcasing the collection of exquisite passes in his repertoire. He has been crucial for the Blasters’ midfield, which has lacked creativity due to the absence of Adrian Luna at the beginning of the season.

Vibin brings both stability and creativity to the Indian midfield. He has been impressive throughout the season with his accurate defence-splitting passes to find his teammates, creating scoring opportunities from deep positions. His ability to maintain possession and dictate the pace of the game should be a key point of focus for Manolo.

Moreover, his press-resistant dribbling and ability to win duels for the second ball can help the team to control possession around the opposition’s box. The box-to-box midfielder has already showcased in the league, his commitment to track back without forgetting defensive responsibilities. Overall, Manolo Marquez will find a complete package in Vibin, which can operate in both a single-pivot and a double-pivot system.

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