Three new faces called up to Indian football team for June international window

Manolo Marquez named a 28-member probable squad for the Indian football team’s camp in Kolkata.

The Indian football team is set to play two games in June against Thailand and Hong Kong. The game on June 4 against Thailand is a friendly. However, after that, the Blue Tigers begin their AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Hong Kong on June 10.

Seeking qualification for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, the Blue Tigers need to win their group to make it to the tournament in Saudi Arabia. Apart from Hong Kong, India will also play Singapore and Bangladesh, who have been drawn in Group C.

As expected, Manolo Marquez has added new blood to his squad before the upcoming games. Here are the three new faces that will don the Indian colours for the first time:

Hrithik Tiwari

Between the posts, Hrithik Tiwari stood tall for FC Goa this season, as his saves and distribution helped them win their second Kalinga Super Cup title. The young goalkeeper registered two clean sheets in four cup matches, displaying excellent reflexes and composure under pressure.

His performance in the ISL was also impressive as he kept seven clean sheets in 17 ISL games this season. Tiwari was a huge positive for the Gaurs in a season where Laxmikant Kattimani was their No.1 goalkeeper. His performances kept Kattimani out of Marquez’s starting eleven and helped him enjoy a lot of playing time.

It will be interesting to see if he can potentially get some playing time with the Indian football team with Vishal Kaith expected to be the first choice for the upcoming games.

ALSO READ: India announce 28-member probables squad for Kolkata camp ahead of Hong Kong & Thailand clashes

Nikhil Prabhu

While Punjab FC had a difficult ISL and Kalinga Super Cup campaign, Prabhu left a great impression on Manolo Marquez, as he was called up to the Indian football team for the FIFA international window in June. He started the 2024 Durand Cup campaign in great style for the Shers as he registered two assists in four games, setting the tone for his side.

Prabhu was deployed in a defensive midfielder role, and he excelled for the Shers during the 2024-25 ISL campaign. Apart from making 21 appearances, he also helped them keep three clean sheets during the 2024-25 campaign. Marquez could be looking to utilize Prabhu in the heart of midfield, an area which he will be looking to strengthen for the Indian football team.

Suhail Ahmad Bhat

The young forward has impressed the Spaniard after a breakout Kalinga Super Cup campaign with the Mariners. He added a lot of energy and hunger to his side’s attack with his diligent running and an eye for a goal in all the Cup games. His relentless pressing and clever positioning helped him grab two goals in two games, where he produced some admirable finishing skills to help his side.

He was also impressive during the Mariners’ 2024 Durand Cup campaign as he scored two goals in three appearances for Jose Molina’s side. While his inclusion in the Indian football team is encouraging, it will be interesting to see how much game time he will get under Marquez in June.

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