New faces called up in India's probable squad for Malaysia International friendly

Durand Cup’s Golden Ball winner gets his first national team call-up.

After eight electrifying weeks of action in the Indian Super League (ISL), we now turn our focus to the Indian football team. Manolo Marquez and his men are set to face Malaysia on November 18th. The match will take place at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad, and fans can expect a spirited clash during this international break.

It is noteworthy that since Manolo Marquez assumed the reins of the Indian National Football Team, they have yet to secure their first victory. Opening with a goalless draw against Mauritius and then settling for another draw against Vietnam, the Indian team subsequently suffered a humbling defeat at the hands of Syria.

Now, they are set to confront a formidable challenge in the Malaysian National Football Team. Manolo Marquez, revered as a coach unafraid of placing faith in raw, unrefined young Indian talent, has once more extended opportunities to a cadre of promising youngsters, whose performances in the current Indian Super League season have been nothing short of remarkable.

Players such as Irfan Yadav from Chennaiyin FC, Vibin Mohanan from Kerala Blasters, Jitin MS from NorthEast United FC, and Valpuia from Mumbai City FC have each earned their inaugural call-up to the senior national football team, marking a milestone in their burgeoning careers.

In this article, we delve into the performances of these emerging talents, who are poised to wear the blue jersey of the Indian National Football Team for the very first time. Their journey from club stardom in the ISL to representing the nation highlights a promising step forward for Indian football.

Irfan Yadvad

Irfan Yadwad, the dynamic centre-forward for Chennaiyin FC, has been a relentless force on the field, especially evident in his recent clash against the Red Miners. Yadwad has featured in every match for the Marina Machans this season, showcasing his consistency and skill.

With one goal and two assists in seven appearances, he has maintained a respectable goal conversion rate of 8.33%, displaying his potential despite the modest tally.

Valpuia

Hmingthanmawia Ralte, fondly known as Valpuia, is a 24-year-old defensive stalwart from Aizawl who has been a standout for Mumbai City FC since last season. Valpuia embarked on his professional journey with Aizawl FC in 2017, amassing 25 appearances that highlighted his potential early on. His transition to Mumbai City FC in 2019 marked a significant step.

ALSO READ: Manolo Marquez announces India’s 26-man probable squad for Malaysia friendly

Since returning to the Islanders after a loan tenure in Punjab, he has consistently demonstrated his defensive prowess, earning accolades for his formidable presence on the field.

Much of Valpuia’s development can be attributed to the guidance of coach Petr Kratky, who has provided him ample opportunities to prove his mettle in the senior team.

As Valpuia now stands on the cusp of potentially representing India, fans are eager to see if he will feature against Malaysia in the upcoming international friendly.

Vibin Mohanan

Vibin Mohanan, a promising 21-year-old talent from Thrissur, Kerala, has swiftly ascended through the ranks of Indian football. He began his journey with the Kerala Police Academy before joining Kerala Blasters‘ youth setup in 2017.

His standout performances earned him a promotion to the senior squad in 2022, following a two-season loan spell with Indian Arrows that refined his skills and resilience.

Vibin has also represented India at the Under-20 and Under-23 levels, offering glimpses of his remarkable potential on the international stage.

Notably, he played a vital role in India’s triumph in the SAFF Under-20 Championship and was recognized as the Emerging Player of the Month in the ISL in November 2023, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most promising young players.

Also Read: India football team’s past record at Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad

Jithin MS

Jithin MS, also known as Jithin Madathil Subran, has emerged as an exceptional talent for NorthEast United FC since he arrived at the club in 2022. Hailing from Thrissur, Kerala, he has made an impressive 36 appearances for John Abraham’s side, netting five goals in the process.

Before joining the Highlanders, Jithin honed his skills with clubs such as FC Kerala, Gokulam Kerala, and the reserve team of Kerala Blasters, where he showcased his potential.

His time with Gokulam Kerala was particularly noteworthy, as he played a pivotal role in their back-to-back I-League victories in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons.

Jithin’s remarkable performances culminated in him being awarded the Durand Cup Golden Ball in 2024, an accolade that coincided with NorthEast United FC’s historic first trophy in over a decade.

Eager to cement his place in the starting lineup, Jithin is determined to seize any opportunities that come his way, ready to make a lasting impact on the pitch.

India’s 26-member probable squad for Malaysia friendly

Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Vishal Kaith.

Defenders: Aakash Sangwan, Anwar Ali, Asish Rai, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, Roshan Singh Naorem, Sandesh Jhingan.

Midfielders: Anirudh Thapa, Brandon Fernandes, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Jithin MS, Lalengmawia Ralte, Liston Colaco, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Vibin Mohanan.

Forwards: Edmund Lalrindika, Irfan Yadwad, Farukh Choudhary, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh, Vikram Partap Singh.

Manolo Marquez has announced a 26-member probable squad for the Blue Tigers ahead of Malaysia friendly 👀🔥#IndianFootball #indianfootballteam #manolomarquez pic.twitter.com/qpuFntrKyI

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) November 5, 2024

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