Chhangte, Manisha Headline FPAI Awards as East Bengal Enjoyed Double Glory

New Delhi, August 29: India midfielder and Mohun Bagan star Lallianzuala Chhangte was named the Indian Footballer of the Year at the Football Players' Association of India's (FPAI) Indian Football Awards 2026 on Saturday, while Manisha Kalyan was adjudged the Indian Women's Player of the Year.

The awards recognised the standout performers from the 2025-26 season across Indian football, with East Bengal receiving double honours following a historic campaign.

East Bengal FC were named the ISL Champions after ending a 22-year wait for a national league title, while East Bengal FC Women were honoured as the Indian Women's League champions.

Chhangte, 29, who enjoyed a strong season with both India and Mohun Bagan, was among the evening's biggest winners. Shillong Lajong's Phrangki Buam was named I-League Player of the Year, while Jamshedpur FC's Sanan Mohammed K won the Young Player of the Year award.

Miguel Figueira Damasceno was named Foreign Player of the Year, with Owen Coyle and Anthony Andrews winning the Men's and Women's Coach of the Year awards respectively. Sanfida Nongrum was named Women's Young Player of the Year, while former India coach Savio Medeira received the Coach Education Award.

Speaking about the significance of the awards, FPAI founding president and former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia said their biggest strength was that the winners are chosen by fellow professionals.

"I think this award is the biggest and most respected award for all footballers in India," Bhutia said.

He added that winning an FPAI award carried special significance because it was voted for by players who understood the demands of the sport and had seen their peers perform throughout the season.

Bhutia also highlighted the broader role of the FPAI in supporting players, particularly those competing in the lower leagues. He said the association was formed not only for established stars but also to provide a voice to players who often lacked support when facing difficulties.

The Player Performance and Development Award went to Rapid Sports and The Right Weigh, while the evening also celebrated the achievements of East Bengal's men's and women's teams.