India’s senior men’s national team head coach Manolo Márquez has revealed a 26-member squad for the upcoming FIFA International Window in March 2025. The squad selection has sparked major headlines, with the legendary Sunil Chhetri coming out of retirement, while star goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu has been left out.
Let’s break down the full squad and what this means for India’s preparations ahead of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers.
🏆 India’s Upcoming Fixtures
-
Friendly Match: India vs Maldives
📅 Date: March 19, 2025
📍 Venue: Male, Maldives -
AFC Asian Cup Qualifier: India vs Bangladesh
📅 Date: March 25, 2025
📍 Venue: Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata, India
🔥 Key Talking Points
1️⃣ Sunil Chhetri’s Sensational Return
In a shocking yet welcome twist, Sunil Chhetri has reversed his retirement decision and rejoined the national squad. The 39-year-old striker, India’s all-time leading goal-scorer, will once again don the captain’s armband — a massive boost to India’s attack.
Coach Manolo Márquez praised Chhetri’s leadership and fitness, stating:
“Sunil’s experience and hunger to win will be vital for these crucial matches. His presence will inspire younger players.”
2️⃣ Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s Omission
Another major surprise was the absence of Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. While the AIFF hasn’t given an official reason, it’s speculated that fitness concerns or tactical preferences may have influenced this decision.
In his place, Márquez has called up a trio of goalkeepers, signaling a potential shift in India’s defensive setup.
⚽ Full 26-Member India Squad
🧤 Goalkeepers:
- Amrinder Singh
- Vishal Kaith
- Dheeraj Singh
🛡️ Defenders:
- Sandesh Jhingan
- Anwar Ali
- Rahul Bheke
- Subhasish Bose
- Akash Mishra
- Nikhil Poojary
- Mehtab Singh
⚡ Midfielders:
- Anirudh Thapa
- Sahal Abdul Samad
- Jeakson Singh
- Suresh Singh Wangjam
- Brandon Fernandes
- Lallianzuala Chhangte
- Apuia Ralte
🎯 Forwards:
- Sunil Chhetri (Captain)
- Manvir Singh
- Ishan Pandita
- Liston Colaco
- Rahim Ali
- Vikram Pratap Singh
- Mahesh Singh
- Bipin Singh
📊 Tactical Insights & Expectations
With Chhetri back, Márquez is likely to lean on a 4-2-3-1 formation — utilizing his captain as the focal point up top, with fast, creative wingers like Chhangte and Liston Colaco supporting him.
The midfield battle will be anchored by Anirudh Thapa and Jeakson Singh, ensuring a blend of defensive grit and attacking vision.
In defense, Sandesh Jhingan‘s leadership will be crucial as he partners Anwar Ali at the heart of the backline.
📢 What’s at Stake?
- The friendly against Maldives will serve as a crucial warm-up, helping Márquez finalize his best XI.
- The AFC Asian Cup Qualifier vs Bangladesh on March 25 is a must-win, as India pushes to secure a spot in the 2027 tournament.
India’s group is highly competitive, and a strong start against Bangladesh will set the tone for the qualifiers.
🚀 Conclusion: Can Chhetri’s Return Inspire India?
With Sunil Chhetri’s dramatic return and a squad packed with young talent, India is poised to make a strong statement. The absence of Gurpreet Sandhu raises questions, but Márquez seems focused on building a dynamic, fast-paced team for the future.
👉 Stay tuned for live match updates, player insights, and post-match analysis as India takes on Maldives and Bangladesh this March!