Top 10 Indian Footballers Right Now: Ranking the Best Players

Current Standouts in Indian Football

Indian football features a group of talented players steadily raising the sport’s visibility. Leading this pack is Lallianzuala Chhangte, known for his leadership, scoring ability, and consistency. Goalkeeper Vishal Kaith offers dependable performances between the posts, while defender Sandesh Jhingan brings experience and toughness to the backline. Midfield creators like Anirudh Thapa and Lalengmawia Ralte deliver vision and control. Attacking roles are shared by legends such as Sunil Chhetri and emerging talent Liston Colaco. Additionally, defenders Subhasish Bose and Rahul Bheke maintain key roles for club and country, earning their spots among India's best currently.

Who Ranks Among the Best Indian Footballers?

The question of the top Indian footballer today yields multiple answers, given the strong performances across positions. We assembled a list based on current form and achievements, spotlighting those who have stood out recently.

• 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 Criteria

Assessing the best Indian footballer isn't straightforward through a single lens. We considered multiple factors to keep rankings balanced regardless of playing positions.

• Performance Stats: Goals, assists, saves, blocks, and other individual numbers were analyzed.
• Consistency: Regular fitness and steady contributions throughout the season weighed heavily.
• Impact in Big Matches: Performances in key fixtures like knockouts and derbies raised players' profiles.

Statistics were sourced from Sportsdunia, Transfermarkt, Fbref, and FootyStats.

Profiles of the Top 10 Indian Footballers

10. Akash Mishra (Mumbai City FC)

A 24-year-old left-back, Akash has impressed with his attacking runs and defensive sharpness. Formerly with Hyderabad FC and Indian Arrows, he also represents India internationally. Known for smart positioning and strong crossing skills, his future looks bright.

• Appearances (24-25): 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)

Known as 'Apuia', this 25-year-old midfielder combines energy and stamina with ball-winning skill. Playing centrally, he crafts counterattacks effectively and previously appeared for Mumbai City, NorthEast United, and Indian Arrows.

• Appearances (24-25): 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 reliable box-to-box midfielder at 25, Anirudh excels in creative passing and is crucial both offensively and defensively for Mohun Bagan and India.

• Appearances (24-25): 22
• Goals + Assists: 5
• Progressive Passes in Final 3rd per 90: 1.81
• Progressive Carries per 90: 0.27

7. Sandesh Jhingan (FC Goa)

Aged 32, Sandesh is a commanding centre-back and captain of the national team. His aerial dominance and defensive presence make him a formidable opponent.

• Appearances (24-25): 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 pace and dribbling, Liston is a lethal winger or striker. The 27-year-old's shooting and versatility have made him a key player for club and country.

• Appearances (24-25): 32
• Goals + Assists: 8
• Shots on Target per 90: 2.71
• Chance Creation per 90: 1.23

5. Subhasish Bose (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Captain of Mohun Bagan and an adaptable defender capable of playing left-back and center-back, 30-year-old Bose is praised for his physicality and defensive skill.

• Appearances (24-25): 30
• Aerial Duels Won per 90: 2.10
• Blocks per 90: 0.69
• Interceptions per 90: 2.02

4. Rahul Bheke (Bengaluru FC)

A versatile defender, Rahul can play right-back or centre-back and leads Bengaluru FC as captain. His tackling and aerial strength are vital assets.

• Appearances (24-25): 26
• Aerial Duels Won per 90: 1.59
• Blocks per 90: 0.61
• Interceptions per 90: 1.06

3. Sunil Chhetri (Bengaluru FC)

One of India's greatest footballers ever, Sunil is the national team's top scorer and a legend in Indian football. At 41, he continues to impress with pace and versatility. Recipient of multiple prestigious awards, his legacy is unmatched.

• Appearances (24-25): 34
• Expected Goals (xG): 12.80
• Goals: 17
• Assists: 4

2. Vishal Kaith (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

This 29-year-old goalkeeper has earned praise for his consistent shot-stopping, at times overshadowing veteran Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. His clean sheets and save percentage highlight his importance for club and country.

• Appearances (24-25): 31
• Total Clean Sheets: 19
• Total Saves: 75
• Shots Save % per 90: 79.7%

1. Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC)

Topping the list, Lallianzuala is a swift, versatile forward nicknamed ‘Mizo Flash’ for his incredible speed. As captain of Mumbai City FC and a key figure for India, his finishing and tactical awareness stand out.

• Appearances (24-25): 27
• Goals + Assists: 13
• Shots on Target per 90: 2.64
• Chance Creation per 90: 1.26

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is the best footballer of India right now? Lallianzuala Chhangte is widely regarded as the best currently.
• Does club performance matter in deciding the best Indian footballer? Yes, club form plays a significant role.
• Is the best Indian footballer judged only on goals? No, defending, chance creation, and goalkeeping also influence rankings.
• Are defenders and goalkeepers included in the top 10 list? Yes, players like Akash Mishra and Vishal Kaith are featured.