Football in India has witnessed an inspiring transformation in recent years. From the growing popularity of the Indian Super League to India’s rising presence in international tournaments, young footballers are emerging as household names. While cricket continues to dominate the sports scene, football has successfully carved out its own passionate fan base. Today, India is producing a generation of talented players who combine technical skills, tactical awareness, and sheer determination to take the game to the next level. In this article, we will look at the top 10 rising Indian football players who are shaping the future of the sport in the country.
The New Wave of Indian Football
Indian football has often struggled to gain momentum at the international level, but things are changing fast. With improved infrastructure, professional leagues, and global exposure, young players now have opportunities that were once unthinkable. Clubs across the Indian Super League and I-League are investing in youth academies and scouting programs, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent. This new wave of players represents not just individual brilliance but also the hope of India becoming a stronger force in Asian football.
Top 10 Rising Indian Football Players
1. Sahal Abdul Samad
Often called the “Indian Ozil,” Sahal Abdul Samad has impressed fans with his creativity in midfield. Representing Kerala Blasters, he is known for his dribbling skills, quick passes, and ability to unlock defenses. His flair and vision make him one of the most exciting attacking midfielders India has produced in recent years.
2. Liston Colaco
Liston Colaco is widely regarded as one of the fastest forwards in the Indian Super League. Playing for ATK Mohun Bagan, he combines pace with a keen eye for goal. His powerful shots and sharp positioning have made him a constant threat in the attacking third, earning him recognition as one of India’s most promising forwards.
3. Jeakson Singh
Jeakson Singh created history by scoring India’s first-ever goal at a FIFA tournament during the 2017 U-17 World Cup. Since then, he has grown into a reliable defensive midfielder for Kerala Blasters. Known for his composure, strong tackles, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game, Jeakson is considered the backbone of midfield play.
4. Akash Mishra
Akash Mishra is one of the finest young defenders in the country. Currently playing for Mumbai City FC, his ability to read the game and make timely tackles has caught the eye of fans and coaches alike. He is also versatile, contributing both defensively and offensively with his overlapping runs on the left flank.
5. Anirudh Thapa
Anirudh Thapa has already established himself as one of the best midfielders in Indian football. Representing Chennaiyin FC, he brings balance with his box-to-box presence. His leadership qualities, combined with his passing range, make him an indispensable part of both club and national team setups.
6. Ishan Pandita
Ishan Pandita has earned a reputation as a super substitute because of his knack for scoring late goals. Having played in Spain during his youth career, he brings international experience and striking instincts to the field. His ability to capitalize on half chances makes him a valuable asset for both his club and the Indian national team.
7. Vikram Pratap Singh
Vikram Pratap Singh is another exciting forward to watch out for. A product of the Indian Arrows program, he currently plays for Mumbai City FC. His agility, dribbling ability, and fearless approach against stronger defenders have made him a fan favorite and a player with immense potential.
8. Sivasakthi Narayanan
Sivasakthi Narayanan’s rise has been remarkable with Bengaluru FC. Known for his tireless work rate and goal-scoring ability, he has shown maturity beyond his years. His instinctive finishing and sharp positioning highlight his potential as a future striker for India.
9. Rahul KP
Rahul KP, another Kerala Blasters star, has showcased versatility as a winger. His explosive pace, trickery on the ball, and ability to deliver accurate crosses make him an attacking threat. He has already scored some crucial goals, cementing his place as a dependable young forward.
10. Lalengmawia Ralte (Apuia)
Popularly known as Apuia, Lalengmawia Ralte is a midfield maestro with incredible composure. Playing for Mumbai City FC, his passing accuracy and ability to control the flow of the game at such a young age have made him stand out. Apuia represents the new standard of technical excellence in Indian football.
Why These Players Matter for Indian Football
These rising stars are more than just talented individuals. They represent a new era where Indian football is breaking stereotypes and challenging limits. Their performances in the Indian Super League and national team fixtures have attracted attention from scouts, sponsors, and fans alike. By combining international training exposure with local passion, they are inspiring the next generation of players.
The success of these youngsters also strengthens India’s grassroots football ecosystem. More academies are now motivated to nurture raw talent, while fans are beginning to follow football with greater enthusiasm. With consistent performances, these players could pave the way for India to climb higher in FIFA rankings and qualify for bigger international tournaments in the future.
Conclusion
The top 10 rising Indian football players listed above reflect the transformation of Indian football from a struggling sport to one filled with hope and excitement. Their skills, determination, and growing impact make them role models for aspiring athletes across the country. If nurtured well, this new generation could carry Indian football to unprecedented heights in the coming years. As fans, it is the perfect time to support these young stars, follow their journeys, and contribute to the growth of the beautiful game in India.
Frequently Asked Questions on Rising Indian Football Players
Q1. Who is the most promising young football player in India right now?
Answer. Several names stand out, but Sahal Abdul Samad, Liston Colaco, and Apuia are often regarded as the most promising talents.
Q2. Which Indian footballer scored in the FIFA U-17 World Cup?
Answer. Jeakson Singh made history by scoring India’s first-ever goal in a FIFA tournament during the 2017 U-17 World Cup.
Q3. Which clubs are producing the best young Indian players?
Answer. Clubs like Kerala Blasters, Mumbai City FC, ATK Mohun Bagan, and Bengaluru FC have been at the forefront of developing and promoting young Indian footballers.
Q4. Can Indian football players compete in European leagues?
Answer. Some Indian players, like Ishan Pandita, have already trained and played in Europe. With more exposure and development, others may follow in the future.
Q5. What is the future of Indian football?
Answer. With rising talents, improved infrastructure, and increasing fan support, the future of Indian football looks brighter than ever, with hopes of stronger performances on the Asian and global stage.
