The Indian football scene is buzzing in anticipation as Senior Men’s National Team Head Coach Manolo Marquez has disclosed a 26-man hopefuls list for India’s preparatory camp in view of the Intercontinental Cup 2024. This tournament is scheduled to occur in Hyderabad between 3rd and 9th September 2024, thus marking the start of what is being called the Manolo Era. There are only fourteen days remaining until this camp starts, yet there are already talks about who will make up the squad especially with certain renowned faces missing out while some promising young stars are being added on board.
Notable Absences: Brandon and Vikram Miss Out
Absence of experienced players like Brandon Fernandes and Vikram Pratap Singh is one of the most discussed parts of the probables list. In recent times, both players have been key to the national team, but they are not on this list because they were injured. The creative Brandon in the midfield and Vikram who can play anywhere up front are now recovering, so they cannot selected. They are missed indeed, but these gaps also give way to new ones.
Young Talent Set to Shine
Despite the missing stars, the list is far from lacking in excitement. Manolo Marquez has shown confidence in several young players who have already impressed in the Indian Super League (ISL).
Kiyan Nassiri: The young striker, who has been turning heads with his performances for ATK Mohun Bagan in the ISL, is one of the most exciting names on the list.
Nassiri’s pace, agility, and eye for goal make him a player to watch in the upcoming tournament.
Prabhsukhan Singh Gill: The 23-year-old goalkeeper has been a standout performer in the ISL, and his inclusion is a testament to his growing reputation as one of India’s top goalkeepers. With experienced keepers like Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Amrinder Singh also in the mix, the competition for the starting spot will be fierce.
Edmund Lalrindika:
A promising striker from the I-League, Edmund plays for Inter Kashi and has also made his mark on the national team. His inclusion adds depth to India’s attacking options, and he will be eager to prove himself on the big stage.
| Source Instagram |
A promising striker from the I-League, Edmund plays for Inter Kashi and has also made his mark on the national team. His inclusion adds depth to India’s attacking options, and he will be eager to prove himself on the big stage.
A Blend of Experience and Youth: The Probables List
The 26-member probables list reflects a balance between experience and youth, with established names like Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Rahul Bheke, and Anirudh Thapa providing stability, while emerging talents like Kiyan Nassiri, Prabhsukhan Singh Gill, and Edmund Lalrindika inject fresh energy into the squad.
Here’s the full list of probables:
Goalkeepers: Prabhsukhan Singh Gill, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Amrinder Singh
Defenders: Nikhil Poojary, Chinglensana Singh, Rahul Bheke, Naorem Roshan Singh, Anwar Ali, Jay Gupta, Asish Rai, Mehtab Singh, Subhasish Bose
Midfielders: Suresh Singh Wangjam, Jeakson Singh, Nandhakumar Sekar, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Mohammad Yasir, Lalengmawia Ralte, Anirudh Thapa, Sahal Abdul Samad, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Lalthathanga Khawlhring
Strikers: Kiyan Nassiri, Manvir Singh, Liston Colaco, Edmund Lalrindika
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead for India
The upcoming Intercontinental Cup 2024 is not merely a tournament but a whole new chapter of Indian football under the leadership of Manolo Marquez. The combination of seasoned players alongside youthful talent in the probables list gives an idea into what is possible with Indian football as it faces challenges ahead.
With only about two weeks before the commencement of camp, it will be interesting to see how these players will fare under Manolo’s tutoring. Will the youngsters face up to the occasion or would it be up to the veterans to steer India to victory? One thing is sure; it promises to be an exciting journey.
Keep checking here for more updates as India prepares itself for Intercontinental Cup 2024 which could determine future direction for Indian soccer.
