The Indian men’s national football team head coach, Manolo Marquez, announced a 26-member squad on Tuesday for the upcoming international friendly against Malaysia, scheduled for November 18.
In his first major squad announcement since taking over, Marquez has introduced a mix of veteran players and promising young talent, aiming to test new combinations ahead of India’s 2024 competitions.
The most significant return to the squad is that of seasoned defender Sandesh Jhingan, who had been sidelined since sustaining a knee injury during India’s AFC Asian Cup campaign.
His comeback is anticipated to bolster India’s defensive lineup, bringing much-needed experience and leadership. Now with FC Goa, where Marquez is also a coach, Jhingan’s fitness and form will be closely watched as he rejoins national duties.
Young Chennaiyin FC forward Irfan Yadwad is another notable addition to the squad. Yadwad’s recent performances have impressed Marquez, who is eager to introduce more dynamism to India’s attack. Yadwad will join established forwards like Manvir Singh, Lallianzuala Chhangte, and Liston Colaco, providing Marquez with diverse attacking options.
The squad also sees the inclusion of Jithin M.S., NorthEast United FC’s in-form midfielder. His presence in the midfield is expected to add versatility alongside other key players like Anirudh Thapa and Brandon Fernandes. With several midfielders who excel in both attack and defense, Marquez aims to strengthen the team’s adaptability in transition play, a strategy that may be crucial against Malaysia.
The selection also reflects Marquez’s intention to experiment by excluding a few names who featured in recent tournaments like the Intercontinental Cup and the match against Vietnam. This approach allows the Spanish coach to evaluate potential future fixtures, providing an opportunity for less experienced players to prove their worth.
India’s friendly against Malaysia is set to take place at Hyderabad’s GMC Balayogi Gachibowli Stadium, with the team assembling in the city on November 11 for a preparatory camp. The fixture will serve as an essential tune-up as India gears up for a packed international calendar next year, including the AFC Asian Cup.
Here’s the complete list of probables for the 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 Pratap Singh
As Marquez prepares to field his new-look squad, fans are eager to see how his tactical changes and strategic inclusions shape India’s performance against Malaysia.
