Chhetri to lead India’s Asian Games squad, AIFF grateful to ISL clubs for player release

India’s 17-member squad for the Asian Games has been announced, with Bengaluru FC granting permission for Sunil Chhetri to join the team.

_{^{Sunil Chhetri will be eager to maintain his impressive scoring streak. (Photo: AIFF)}}

India’s Asian Games football squad was announced on September 13 by the All India , China during September and October. The AIFF expressed gratitude to Indian Super League (ISL) clubs for their cooperation in releasing players for the tournament, despite the clash with the upcoming domestic season.

AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey acknowledged the demanding schedule for Indian football, including the SAFF Cup, Intercontinental Cup, Kings Cup, and Tri-Nation series. Chaubey highlighted the challenges faced by the players and their teams if they progress far in the tournament.

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He mentioned the tight schedule and the need to adjust it due to upcoming general elections and adverse weather conditions. Chaubey thanked the Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) and the clubs for their support, emphasizing the importance of the active backing from the Government of India, particularly the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

Notably, the Indian Olympic Association initially denied the team’s participation, but the Sports Ministry eventually allowed it after persistence from the AIFF and coach Igor Stimac. The squad comprises players such as Gurmeet Singh, Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem, Sumit Rathi, Narender Gahlot, Amarjit Singh Kiyam, Samuel James, Rahul KP, Abdul Rabeeh Anjukandan, Ayush Dev Chhetri, Bryce Miranda, Azfar Noorani, Rahim Ali, Vincy Bareto, Sunil Chhetri, Rohit Danu, Gurkirat Singh, Aniket Jadhav.

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Toshika Chauhan