Top 10 Indian Footballers Right Now: Ranking the Best Players

Indian football features a strong group of players elevating the sport's reputation nationally. Leading this pack is Lallianzuala Chhangte, known for his leadership, goal-scoring, and consistent performances, making him a prominent figure in Indian football. Defensively, goalkeeper Vishal Kaith offers stability, while center-back Sandesh Jhingan provides experience and strength. Midfield creativity comes from talents like Anirudh Thapa and Lalengmawia Ralte. Up front, the legendary Sunil Chhetri and rising star Liston Colaco add firepower. Left-backs Subhasish Bose and Akash Mishra, along with defender Rahul Bheke, also hold key roles in their clubs and country.

Ranking the Best Indian Footballers

Deciding the top Indian player right now isn’t straightforward, given many impressive contenders. The ranking combines various factors like recent form, achievements, and impact regardless of position. Below is the list reflecting current performance and influence.

• 10. Akash Mishra – Left-Back, Mumbai City FC
• 9. Lalengmawia Ralte – Midfielder, Mohun Bagan Super Giant
• 8. Anirudh Thapa – Midfielder, Mohun Bagan Super Giant
• 7. Sandesh Jhingan – Centre-back, FC Goa
• 6. Liston Colaco – Forward, Mohun Bagan Super Giant
• 5. Subhasish Bose – Left-back, Mohun Bagan Super Giant
• 4. Rahul Bheke – Centre-back, Bengaluru FC
• 3. Sunil Chhetri – Forward, Bengaluru FC
• 2. Vishal Kaith – Goalkeeper, Mohun Bagan Super Giant
• 1. Lallianzuala Chhangte – Forward, Mumbai City FC

How the Rankings Were Decided

Multiple aspects shaped these rankings:

• Performance stats: Goals, assists, saves, interceptions, and other individual metrics.
• Consistency: Regular contributions and fitness throughout matches and seasons.
• Impact in key games: Delivering in crucial moments such as knockouts or big rivalries.

Data was sourced from Sportsdunia, Transfermarkt, Fbref, and FootyStats.

Profiles of Top Indian Footballers

• Akash Mishra (24) – Mumbai City FC’s left-back impresses with both defense and attack. Known for sharp positioning and excellent crossing ability. 2024/25 stats include 20 appearances, 0.68 blocks per 90, 0.17 interceptions per 90.
• Lalengmawia Ralte (Apuia) – Central midfielder for Mohun Bagan with great stamina and ball-winning skills. Creates counterattacks effectively. Made 27 appearances last season with 1 goal or assist, 0.59 progressive passes into final third per 90.
• Anirudh Thapa – Dynamic box-to-box midfielder for Mohun Bagan, contributing creatively and defensively. In 22 appearances, he tallied 5 goals or assists and averaged 1.81 progressive passes into the final third per 90.
• Sandesh Jhingan (32) – Veteran center-back for FC Goa and India’s captain. Strong in aerial duels (2.23 won per 90), blocks (1.09 per 90), and interceptions (1.09 per 90) over 24 appearances.
• Liston Colaco – Prolific forward for Mohun Bagan known for pace, dribbling, and finishing. Recorded 32 appearances, 8 goals or assists, 2.71 shots on target per 90 in the 2024/25 season.
• Subhasish Bose – Versatile left-back and captain at Mohun Bagan. Physical presence with 30 appearances, 2.10 aerial duels won per 90, and 2.02 interceptions per 90 last season.
• Rahul Bheke – Defender and Bengaluru FC captain, adept at right-back and center-back roles. Noted for tackling and aerial ability with 26 appearances, 1.59 aerial duels won per 90.
• Sunil Chhetri (41) – One of India’s greatest forwards and legends of the game, representing Bengaluru FC. Holds records for most caps and goals. In the 2024/25 campaign, he scored 17 goals and provided 4 assists over 34 appearances.
• Vishal Kaith – Goalkeeper for Mohun Bagan and India, praised for critical saves. Achieved 19 clean sheets and 75 total saves in 31 appearances last season with a 79.7% save percentage.
• Lallianzuala Chhangte – The fastest attacker in Indian football, leading Mumbai City as captain. Known as 'Mizo Flash' for blistering speed and tactical skill. In 27 appearances, contributed 13 combined goals and assists.

Common Questions

• Who is currently India's best footballer?Lallianzuala Chhangte tops the list as the standout performer.
• Does club performance affect player ranking?Yes, performances at club level play a major role in deciding rankings.
• Is goal scoring the only factor?No, aspects like defending, chance creation, and goalkeeping are also considered.
• Are defenders and goalkeepers included?Absolutely, players like Akash Mishra, Vishal Kaith, and others appear on the list.