The excitement is palpable in the Indian football community following Igor Stimac’s announcement of the 27-member squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. As the Indian team prepares to face Kuwait and Qatar, the composition of the squad has become a topic of keen interest. This selection is noteworthy for several reasons, including the inclusion of players from both the Indian Super League (ISL) and, for the first time under Stimac, the I-League.

Out of the 27 players, a significant majority—25—hail from ISL clubs, underscoring the league’s critical role in nurturing talent. Notably, Stimac has opted not to include players from four ISL clubs: NorthEast United, Punjab FC, Hyderabad FC, and Jamshedpur FC. Additionally, the squad features one player each from Inter Kashi and Mohammedan SC of the I-League, reflecting a broader search for talent across India’s football leagues.

As India gears up for these pivotal qualifiers, particularly the must-win match against Kuwait on June 6, here’s a closer look at the clubs that have contributed the most players to the current national team squad:

10. Inter Kashi (1 player)

  • Edmund Lalrindika: Lalrindika’s stellar performances in the 2023-24 I-League season have earned him a spot in the national squad. His playmaking abilities were instrumental in Inter Kashi’s fourth-place finish.

9. Kerala Blasters FC (1 player)

  • Jeakson Singh: Known for his defensive prowess and ability to break up opposition plays, Jeakson Singh will be crucial in providing balance and resilience in India’s midfield.

8. Mohammedan SC (1 player)

  • David Lalhansanga: A key figure in Mohammedan SC’s successful campaign, Lalhansanga’s performances have paved the way for his selection, highlighting his potential to shine on the national stage.

7. Chennaiyin FC (1 player)

  • Rahim Ali: Making a comeback to the national team, Rahim Ali will serve as a backup striker to the legendary Sunil Chhetri, adding depth to India’s attacking options.

6. FC Goa (2 players)

  • Brandon Fernandes and Jay Gupta: Fernandes’ creativity and vision in midfield make him a vital playmaker, while Gupta will bolster the team’s defensive options.

5. Odisha FC (3 players)

  • Amey Ranawade, Amrinder Singh, and Narender Gehlot: Ranawade and Gehlot will provide defensive solidity, and seasoned goalkeeper Amrinder Singh will compete fiercely for the starting position.

4. East Bengal (3 players)

  • Lalchungnunga, Naorem Mahesh Singh, and Nandhakumar Sekar: Singh, a skilled attacker, and Sekar, making his return, alongside consistent performer Lalchungnunga, form a strong trio for the national squad.

3. Bengaluru FC (4 players)

  • Sunil Chhetri, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Nikhil Poojary, and Suresh Wangjam: Chhetri, the team’s legendary striker, and Sandhu, determined to redeem himself, lead this group, with Poojary and Wangjam adding pace and tenacity.

2. Mumbai City FC (4 players)

  • Lallianzuala Chhangte, Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, and Vikram Pratap Singh: Chhangte’s wing play, Bheke’s defensive stability, and Vikram Singh’s impressive form highlight the contributions from Mumbai City.

1. Mohun Bagan (7 players)

  • Liston Colaco, Anirudh Thapa, Manvir Singh, Vishal Kaith, Subhasish Bose, Sahal Abdul Samad, and Anwar Ali: Dominating the squad, these seven players were pivotal in Mohun Bagan’s successful 2023-24 season and are expected to make significant impacts in the qualifiers.

The diversity in club representation reflects Stimac’s comprehensive approach to building a competitive team. The inclusion of players from both ISL and I-League signifies a commitment to fielding the best talent available, aiming to secure a strong position in the World Cup Qualifiers. As the matches approach, the performances of these club-contributed players will be crucial in determining India’s path forward in the international football arena.

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