Football is a global phenomenon with millions of fans around
the world. While its biggest following comes from Europe, the sport enjoys
recognition in many other regions too. India isn’t traditionally seen as a
football powerhouse, so it's no surprise that local players rarely receive
international attention. However, there are a few standout talents who’ve
broken through and gained recognition abroad — some of whose matches and
leagues you can follow and bet on via GGBet India,
a trusted football betting site
Sunil Chhetri (August 3, 1984)
Sunil Chhetri is the best scorer in the Indian Super League.
Despite his mature age, he remains the captain of the national team. He is also
one of the best forwards, currently representing Bengaluru FC. During his long
career, he played two years in Sporting CP B and also changed many clubs in the
national championship, including Chirag United, Mohun Bagan, Mumbai City, and
others. Chhetri scored 93 international goals for the national team and earned
the Khel Ratna Award as India’s top player in 2024.
Sandesh Jhingan (July 21, 1993)
Sandesh Jhingan started his professional career in 2011. His
breakthrough came during his time with Kerala Blasters. He helped the club to
play in the final match of the Indian Super League. His performance won him the
AIFF Emerging Player of the Year Award. Jhingan joined the national team in
2015. Since then, he has become a key defender with excellent statistics. He
helped the national team to get a legendary draw against China in 2018. Jhingan
was awarded the AIFF Men’s Player of the Year in 2020/2021. Jhingan is now
playing in Goa, the top club in the Indian Super League.
Sailen Manna (September 1, 1924 - February 27, 2012)
Sailen Manna is known as one of the best defenders in India.
He caught the attention of the football community at the age of 17. He builds
his reputation in his first club, Howrah Union. He was eventually invited to the
national football team. His leadership skills helped him become the captain of
the national team. India achieved its first international success by winning
the Asian Games in 1951. He was the only Asian footballer listed among the best
team captains in the world by the English FA. Manna represented Mohun Bagan for
almost two decades. By the end of his career, he received the Padma Shri Award
for his achievements.
Subrata Bhattacharya (March 3, 1953)
Subrata Bhattacharya was the key defender of the national
team in the 60s and 90s. He played for almost two decades in Mohun Bagan,
winning multiple trophies such as the IFA Shield, Durand Cup, and Rovers Cup.
After finishing his football career, Bhattacharya became a successful coach. He
took charge of Mohun Bagan in 2000, helping the team win the Indian National
Football League for two times. He then continued his career in East Bengal and
Mohammedan Sporting.
Football is not the most popular sport in India, but it
definitely has its national heroes. The above players have a huge impact on the
development of football at the national level. Some of them managed to leave an
international footprint as well.
