Delilah D’ Souza

Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi

New Delhi, May 23: A fresh chapter begins for the India U-23 men’s football team as head coach Naushad Moosa names a 29-player probable squad ahead of their international friendlies in Tajikistan next month. These matches, set for June 18 and 21 against the U-23 sides of Tajikistan and Kyrgyz Republic, mark the start of a carefully mapped journey leading up to the AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers and the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.

Moosa, officially appointed earlier this week by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), will take charge of the team when their training camp kicks off in Kolkata on June 1. After two weeks of preparation, the team will head to Dushanbe on June 16 for the crucial exposure tour.

This squad isn’t just about friendly matches—it’s about building a bridge to the senior team, giving young talents valuable international match experience, and shaping a competitive side for upcoming major tournaments. The AIFF’s vision includes regular camps and matches during FIFA windows to nurture the next generation of Indian footballers.

The probable list includes a mix of promising names across the pitch—goalkeepers Sahil, Priyansh Dubey, and Md Arbaz; defenders like Nikhil Barla, Bikash Yumnam, and Clarence Fernandes; and midfielders such as Vibin Mohanan, Rahul Raju, and Mohammed Aimen. The attack is bolstered by young forwards including Parthib Sundar Gogoi, Korou Singh Thingujam, and Alan Shaji.

Behind the scenes, the team will be supported by assistant coach Remus Damiao Gomes, goalkeeping coach Dipankar Choudhary, and strength and conditioning coach Diwakar Manohar.

With their eyes set firmly on the future, the Blue Colts are ready to take their first steps toward something bigger—with passion, grit, and belief in their journey.