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Top 10 Indian Footballers Right Now: Ranking the Best Players

Indian football has a roster of talented athletes who continue to push the sport’s visibility. Leading this group is Lallianzuala Chhangte, known for his leadership, scoring ability, and endurance, making him a prominent figure in Indian football. Goalkeeper Vishal Kaith offers steady performances, while defender Sandesh Jhingan provides strength and experience at the back. Midfielders such as Anirudh Thapa and Lalengmawia Ralte bring creativity and control. Attackers like the iconic Sunil Chhetri and emerging talent Liston Colaco also feature prominently. Additionally, Subhasish Bose and Rahul Bheke play vital roles for both club and country, earning their spots among the top 10 Indian footballers today.

Who Makes the Cut?

Despite some quiet phases in Indian football, several players shine through with impressive performances. The debate on who is the best Indian footballer currently sparks many opinions. From veterans like Sunil Chhetri to rising stars like Lallianzuala Chhangte, recent seasons have highlighted numerous standout players ready to lead in upcoming campaigns. Here’s a look at the top 10 Indian footballers based on form and impact.

Top 10 Indian Footballers

  • Rank 10: Akash Mishra - Left-Back, Mumbai City FC
  • Rank 9: Lalengmawia Ralte - Midfielder, Mohun Bagan Super Giant
  • Rank 8: Anirudh Thapa - Midfielder, Mohun Bagan Super Giant
  • Rank 7: Sandesh Jhingan - Centre-back, FC Goa
  • Rank 6: Liston Colaco - Forward, Mohun Bagan Super Giant
  • Rank 5: Subhasish Bose - Left-back, Mohun Bagan Super Giant
  • Rank 4: Rahul Bheke - Centre-back, Bengaluru FC
  • Rank 3: Sunil Chhetri - Forward, Bengaluru FC
  • Rank 2: Vishal Kaith - Goalkeeper, Mohun Bagan Super Giant
  • Rank 1: Lallianzuala Chhangte - Forward, Mumbai City FC

Ranking Methodology

Determining the best Indian footballer isn’t straightforward and requires multiple criteria:

  • Performance Stats: Goals, assists, saves, and other individual metrics weigh heavily.
  • Consistency: Regular contributions and fitness throughout the season matter.
  • Impact in Key Matches: Delivering under pressure in important games raises rankings.

Data was sourced from Sportsdunia, Transfermarkt, Fbref, and FootyStats.

Player Profiles and Stats

10) Akash Mishra (Mumbai City FC)

The 24-year-old left-back excels on both defense and attack. Formerly with Hyderabad FC and Indian Arrows, he’s part of the national team too. Known for smart positioning and crossing skills, he’s a promising talent.

  • Appearances (2024/25): 20
  • Aerial Duels Won per 90: 0.10
  • Blocks per 90: 0.68
  • Interceptions per 90: 0.17

9) Lalengmawia Ralte (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Nicknamed Apuia, this 25-year-old midfielder is praised for energy, stamina, and ball-winning. He creates counterattack chances and plays centrally for both club and country.

  • Appearances (2024/25): 27
  • Goals + Assists: 1
  • Progressive Passes in Final 3rd per 90: 0.59
  • Progressive Carries per 90: 0.23

8) Anirudh Thapa (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

A versatile box-to-box midfielder, Anirudh is known for creative passing and balanced attacking and defensive work. He’s a key player for his team.

  • Appearances (2024/25): 22
  • Goals + Assists: 5
  • Progressive Passes in Final 3rd per 90: 1.81
  • Progressive Carries per 90: 0.27

7) Sandesh Jhingan (FC Goa)

At 32, Jhingan is one of India’s most experienced defenders and current captain of the national team. His aerial dominance and physical presence are vital for defense.

  • Appearances (2024/25): 24
  • Aerial Duels Won per 90: 2.23
  • Blocks per 90: 1.09
  • Interceptions per 90: 1.09

6) Liston Colaco (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Known for speed and dribbling, Colaco is a lethal left winger who can also play striker. His shooting and versatility make him a standout forward.

  • Appearances (2024/25): 32
  • Goals + Assists: 8
  • Shots on Target per 90: 2.71
  • Chance Creation per 90: 1.23

5) Subhasish Bose (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Bose captains Mohun Bagan and represents India internationally. He’s a solid left-back with defensive skill and physicality, capable also as a centre-back.

  • Appearances (2024/25): 30
  • Aerial Duels Won per 90: 2.10
  • Blocks per 90: 0.69
  • Interceptions per 90: 2.02

4) Rahul Bheke (Bengaluru FC)

Bheke is a versatile defender playing right-back and centre-back roles. As captain of Bengaluru FC, he uses aerial power and tackling skills effectively.

  • Appearances (2024/25): 26
  • Aerial Duels Won per 90: 1.59
  • Blocks per 90: 0.61
  • Interceptions per 90: 1.06

3) Sunil Chhetri (Bengaluru FC)

Often called India’s greatest footballer, 41-year-old Chhetri holds records for most goals and appearances. Though retired from the national team, he remains influential in Indian football.

  • Appearances (2024/25): 34
  • Expected Goals (xG): 12.80
  • Goals: 17
  • Assists: 4

2) Vishal Kaith (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Kaith is a recent standout goalkeeper, often outperforming even legendary Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. His crucial saves have earned him trust at club and occasional national duty.

  • Appearances (2024/25): 31
  • Total Clean Sheets: 19
  • Total Saves: 75
  • Shots Save % per 90: 79.7

1) Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC)

Known as the ‘Mizo Flash’ for his incredible pace, Chhangte is a versatile attacker and captain of Mumbai City FC. His vision and finishing make him arguably the best Indian player now.

  • Appearances (2024/25): 27
  • Goals + Assists: 13
  • Shots on Target per 90: 2.64
  • Chance Creation per 90: 1.26

FAQs

  • Who is the best footballer in India right now?Lallianzuala Chhangte is widely regarded as the top player at present.
  • Does club performance affect the ranking? Yes, how a player performs at their club is a key factor.
  • Is goal-scoring the only measure? No, defensive skills, chance creation, and goalkeeping also matter.
  • Are defenders and goalkeepers included in the top 10? Yes, players like Akash Mishra and Vishal Kaith are part of the list.

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