Why inform Noufal PN deserved spot in Khalid Jamil’s India squad over rusty names?

Three goals in three games, Noufal is a star on the rise.

Over the last three games, Noufal PN has burst onto the scene in the Indian Super League (ISL) with a statement few can ignore. Three goals in as many matches have helped Mumbai City FC’s attack while underlining his sharp instincts in front of goal.

Beyond the numbers, it’s the confidence and decisiveness in his play that stand out.

In a league defined by intensity and competition, Noufal’s rise feels less like a surprise and more like a timely reminder of a player ready for the next step, making his omission from the India national team ahead of the Hong Kong clash all the more debatable.

Let us take a closer look at why he deserved a place in the squad.

The road to recognition

Born on October 30, 2000, in Thiruvambady near Kozhikode, Noufal PN’s rise is rooted in humble beginnings. Starting his football journey at just eight years old with local side Cosmos FC, he steadily climbed through Kerala’s competitive footballing structure, later representing BASCO FC in the Kerala Premier League.

His breakthrough came when his performances earned him a spot in the Kerala state team for the Santosh Trophy. Operating on the right wing, Noufal impressed with his pace and attacking intent, playing a key role in Kerala’s triumphant Santosh Trophy 2021–22 campaign.

That success opened the doors to professional football, with Gokulam Kerala FC securing his signature in September 2022.

Noufal made an immediate impact, announcing himself with a Man of the Match performance on his debut where he provided two assists. His steady development continued, and on October 28, 2023, he scored his first league goal against Inter Kashi, a moment that has since come full circle, with Noufal finding the net against the same opposition again, this time in the Indian Super League.

In June 2024, Mumbai City FC secured his services on a three-year deal, marking a significant step up in his career. He made his debut against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, and despite coming on with his side trailing 2-0, Noufal played a pivotal role in an impressive comeback, assisting one goal and influencing another as Mumbai fought back to secure a 2-2 draw.

From grassroots football in Kerala to making an impact on the biggest stage in Indian club football, Noufal PN’s journey reflects persistence, growth, and a player steadily evolving with every opportunity.

Why Noufal PN should have been in India’s squad?

Noufal PN has grown into a key figure for Mumbai City FC this season, stepping up impressively to fill the attacking void left by Vikram Partap Singh. His pace, directness, and relentless attacking intent have added a different dimension to Mumbai’s frontline, one that thrives on stretching defenses and exploiting space.

With Lallianzuala Chhangte often dropping deep to influence play, Noufal’s ability to stay high and make penetrating runs has become crucial. It’s a trait that the India national team has lacked at times, someone willing to constantly threaten the backline and turn half-chances into opportunities.

This Indian Super League (ISL) season has been a breakthrough stage for several young Indian talents, and Noufal stands right at the forefront of that rise.

Performances like his demand recognition, especially when the national team has struggled to find consistency in attack.

That is where the debate intensifies. Established names like Liston Colaco, Manvir Singh, Rahim Ali and Farukh Choudhary bring experience, no doubt but they have also been part of a setup that has failed to deliver consistent results.

When the team continues to struggle with the same core, the reluctance to introduce in-form, younger players like Noufal raises valid questions.

At a time when India is effectively looking ahead to the next cycle of the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, this should ideally be a phase of transition.

Fresh legs, new ideas, and fearless attacking profiles are exactly what the team needs. Noufal, with his current form and hunger, fits that requirement perfectly.

Instead, sticking with the same combination despite underwhelming outcomes has left many Indian football fans frustrated. The omission of a player who is performing week in, week out not only feels like a missed opportunity but also sends the wrong message about merit and form.

Noufal may still be raw, but that is precisely why this was the right moment to bring him in. Even a limited role could have helped him integrate into the system and gain valuable international exposure.

If India is serious about rebuilding and evolving, players like Noufal should not just be in the conversation, they should be given a chance.

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