Coach Manolo Marquez Explains Why Anirudh Thapa Not in India Squad for Vietnam

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Marquez has made three notable omissions in his final 23-man squad from his 26-man probable squad - Anirudh Thapa, Nandhakumar Sekar, and Rahim Ali. This decision has sparked significant discussion, especially in the case of Anirudh Thapa, a consistent performer for both club and country.

"There are still some players who are performing well but they are not here. We're still in the beginning of the season. I don't want to talk much about the ones who are not here. If you speak with 20 people, all of them will give you a different list." Said Manolo Marquez.

"We called these players because we think they are the best to play against Vietnam," added the coach, defending his squad selection ahead of India's friendly against Vietnam which was meant to be a Tri-Nation Series but became a one-match friendly after Lebanon bowed out.

Thapa, who played a decent match against Mauritius in the Intercontinental Cup, has had a strong start to the domestic season with Mohun Bagan. His exclusion from the squad has raised eyebrows, as many expected him to be a key player for the national side in the upcoming match.

Given his recent form, his omission came as a surprise. Nandhakumar Sekar's exclusion, however, was less shocking. The East Bengal winger has struggled to make an impact so far this season, with his club yet to register a win in their first four league matches.

His performance was also disappointing in the one match he played for India against Mauritius in the Intercontinental Cup. His unimpressive form at both the club and national levels made his omission from Marquez's final squad a decision that many expected.

Rahim Ali, who has yet to impress Marquez since the Intercontinental Cup-where he didn't travel with the team-has also been left out. His performances for Chennaiyin FC have done little to change the coach's mind, making his absence from the squad understandable.

As India prepares for its crucial friendly against Vietnam, Marquez has stood by his selections. Despite the debate surrounding Thapa's exclusion, the coach's focus is clearly on the players who he believes are the best fit for the challenge ahead. Whether this decision pays off will be determined on the pitch.