New faces in India U23 football team for U-23 Tri-Nation Friendlies

The India U-23 football team will face Bhutan U-23 on March 28

The India U23 football team are set for an exciting run of fixtures in the upcoming international window, as they prepare to participate in the U-23 Tri-Nation Friendlies against Bhutan and Tajikistan on March 28 and 31, 2026, in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh.

Head coach Naushad Moosa has once again introduced a mix of fresh faces into the squad, signaling a clear focus on long-term development.

With a packed schedule ahead, Moosa will be keen to build momentum, assess new talent, and shape a competitive core that can eventually transition into the senior national team setup.

In this article, we will take a look at the new faces called up by Moosa and what they could bring to the squad.

Muhammed Ajsal

Muhammed Ajsal has been one of the emerging bright spots for Kerala Blasters FC this season, with the 22-year-old forward steadily making his presence felt.

He recently marked a special milestone by scoring his maiden Indian Super League goal against East Bengal FC, a moment that underlined his growing confidence at the top level.

Ajsal grabbed attention with his standout performances in the Santosh Trophy for Kerala and in the Super League Kerala with Calicut FC, where his attacking intent and consistency set him apart.

His ability to stretch defenses, make intelligent runs, and influence play in the final third has translated well into his ISL campaign.

This season, he has become an important attacking outlet for Kerala Blasters, offering energy, pace, and a fresh dimension in the forward line. His rise has now been rewarded with a call-up to the India U-23 squad for the U-23 Tri-Nation Friendlies, where he represents one of the new faces expected to make an impact.

Ebindas Y

Another promising talent from Kerala Blasters FC to earn a maiden call-up to the India U-23 setup is Ebindas. The 20-year-old midfielder has been a crucial figure for the Blasters this season, showcasing composure, work rate, and maturity beyond his age in the Indian Super League.

Ebindas had already caught the eye with his impressive displays in the Super League Kerala last season, where he stood out as one of the most consistent performers.

His ability to control the tempo of the game and contribute both defensively and offensively has made him an important asset in midfield.

Having previously been part of the India U-20 setup, this call-up marks a significant step forward in his development.

Now included in Naushad Moosa’s U-23 squad for the U-23 Tri-Nation Friendlies, Ebindas emerges as a fresh face with the potential to make a strong impression at the next level.

Adison Singh Thokchom

Adison Singh Thokchom, the 21-year-old forward currently representing Mohammedan SC, has earned his maiden call-up to the India U-23 squad.

The youngster has steadily built his reputation this season, featuring in every Indian Super League game and showcasing consistency in attack.

He also made his mark in the Durand Cup, finding the back of the net and highlighting his ability to deliver in crucial moments. Known for his sharp movement and attacking presence, Adison has grown into a reliable option up front.

His inclusion in the U-23 setup marks a significant milestone, as he looks to make an impression at the international level and establish himself among the new generation of Indian forwards.

Zothanpuia

Zothanpuia, the 20-year-old midfielder, is another fresh face included in the India U-23 squad. Currently representing Mumbai City FC, he has been steadily growing in influence and has earned important minutes in the Indian Super League this season.

Despite his young age, Zothanpuia has shown composure and adaptability in midfield, contributing effectively whenever called upon. His development at Mumbai City has highlighted his potential, making him one of the exciting young prospects to watch.

This call-up offers him a valuable opportunity to step onto the international stage and further establish himself as part of India’s emerging U-23 core.

Tomba Singh

22-year-old attacking midfielder Tomba Singh, currently representing Inter Kashi, has also earned a call-up to the India U-23 squad, emerging as another fresh face in the setup.

Known for his creativity and attacking instincts, Tomba has been an important presence in the final third, capable of unlocking defences and contributing with key passes. His performances at the club level have highlighted his potential, making him a valuable addition to the squad.

As he steps into the U-23 setup, Tomba Singh will look to make an immediate impact and strengthen India’s attacking options ahead of the U-23 Tri-Nation Friendlies.

Subham Bhattacharya

19-year-old defender Subham Bhattacharya is another fresh face in the India U-23 squad, earning his first call-up after an impressive run.

He is currently playing for ISL side Odisha FC.

The young defender has shown great promise this season in the Indian Super League, even getting on the scoresheet, an added highlight to his growing influence at the back. Known for his composure and defensive awareness, Subham has quickly established himself as a reliable option.

His inclusion in the squad marks an important step in his development, as he looks to make the most of this opportunity and cement his place among India’s emerging defensive talents.

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