Five young players who can take Indian football by storm
Indian football saw what its youngsters are capable of when they fielded their U-17 squad in the historic U-17 FIFA World Cup tournament, which was held in the country. The Indian squad has some special talents, who have started making their presence felt across clubs in the country, while some have even been offered trials abroad. Here are Indian football's five brightest upcoming stars.
Komal Thatal has already grabbed some serious attention
One of India's greatest young footballing talents, Komal Thatal has been an impressive member of the Indian squad during the U-17 World Cup. Trained at the AIFF Elite Academy, Thatal is now a part of the Indian Super League side ATK, and scored his first goal against ISL table-toppers Bengaluru. The talented midfielder can become an important part of the senior squad in future.
The upcoming custodian who can represent the country
The goalkeeper for the Indian squad, Dheeraj Singh, grabbed international attention with his performances in the U-17 World Cup, and as a result, was invited to trials by European clubs like Motherwell FC, West Ham and Charlton FC. He currently plays for the ISL side Kerala Blasters and managed to keep a clean sheet in his debut for the former finalists.
The Indian squad's very own 'Flash': Udanta Singh
Selected in the Nike All-Asia camp's Star Team, the Manipur-born Udanta Singh has already started making a huge name for himself in the Indian football circuit. Singh has made 15 appearances for the national squad, and is an integral part of the Bengaluru FC squad, scoring thrice this season in his 11 appearances for the franchise. He also won the 2015-16 I-League with Bengaluru.
This Indian youngster runs faster than Messi and Ronaldo
Trained by Liverpool's youth coaches, Chhangte has recorded the highest speed of 35.80 kmph, which is higher than Lionel Messi (32.5 kmph) and Cristiano Ronaldo (33.6 kmph). He has already scored three goals in his five appearances for the Indian squad. Chhangte has been playing for the ISL side Delhi Dynamos since 2017 after stints with DSK Shivajians and NorthEast United.
This Pune City forward saw interest from Villareal
Muhammad Ashique Kuruniyan is one of the most talented upcoming Indian forwards, with even Villareal C showing an interest in him. His stint with the Spanish club ended with him suffering a hamstring injury, but since then he has returned to Pune City and continues faring his trade with them. Ashique has made nine appearances for the senior Indian team as well.
