List of New Inclusions in Indian Football Team Probable Squad by Coach Manolo Marquez

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Indian football team coach Manolo Marquez has made several changes to the squad as he prepares for his second tournament in charge. After a disappointing debut, where India failed to score a single goal and faced widespread criticism, Marquez has responded by reshuffling the team with new inclusions ahead of the Tri-Nation Friendly Tournament in Vietnam.

Marquez has announced a 26-member probables list for the upcoming tournament, scheduled during the October FIFA international match window. India will face hosts Vietnam on October 9, followed by Lebanon on October 12 at the Thien Truong Stadium in Nam Dịnh. The final 23-member squad will be confirmed before the team travels to Vietnam.

Key Changes in Indian football team squad

• In: Vishal Kaith (GK) | Out: Prabhsukhan Gill (GK)
• In: Aakash Sangwan (left back) | Out: Jay Gupta (left back)
• In: Lalrinliana Hnamte (midfielder) | Out: Naorem Mahesh Singh (midfielder)
• In: Brandon Fernandes (midfielder) | Out: Puitea (midfielder)
• In: Vikram Partap Singh (forward) | Out: Kiyan Nassiri Giri (forward)
• In: Farukh Choudhury (forward)
• In: Rahim Ali (forward)

Among the notable additions is Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, replacing East Bengal’s Prabhsukhan Gill. Kaith’s selection has been questioned due to his inconsistent recent form, conceding seven goals in his last three matches. However, the decision to include him was likely influenced by fan support and pressure, although his performance will be closely watched. Gill, on the other hand, was dropped after a poor showing for East Bengal against FC Goa.

Another significant inclusion is Aakash Sangwan, who has impressed at FC Goa. Sangwan replaces Jay Gupta, who filled in for the injured Akash Mishra in the previous tournament. This change reflects Marquez’s confidence in Sangwan, one of his key players at FC Goa.

In midfield, Lalrinliana Hnamte of Chennaiyin FC replaces Naorem Mahesh Singh of East Bengal. Singh's form has been subpar this season, contributing to East Bengal’s three consecutive defeats, while Hnamte’s strong performances for Chennaiyin FC have earned him a call-up.

Brandon Fernandes also makes a return after recovering from injury, replacing Puitea, whose performances at Odisha FC have not lived up to expectations. Fernandes, a crucial player for India in the past, brings valuable experience back to the team.

Vikram Partap Singh has been recalled, replacing Kiyan Nassiri Giri, who has struggled for game time and form at Chennaiyin FC this season. Farukh Choudhury, another Chennaiyin FC player, has also been added to the squad, though his recent performances have been inconsistent.

Finally, Rahim Ali, who is yet to score this season, has been included, raising questions about India’s search for a reliable striker as Sunil Chhetri nears the end of his career.

India’s 26-member Probable Squad for the Tri-Nation Friendly Tournament

Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Amrinder Singh, Vishal Kaith

Defenders: Nikhil Poojary, Rahul Bheke, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Anwar Ali, Aakash Sangwan, Subhasish Bose, Asish Rai, Mehtab Singh, Roshan Singh Naorem

Midfielders: Suresh Singh Wangjam, Lalrinliana Hnamte, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Nandhakumar Sekar, Brandon Fernandes, Anirudh Thapa, Liston Colaco, Lalengmawia, Lallianzuala Chhangte

Forwards: Vikram Partap Singh, Rahim Ali, Farukh Choudhury