Top 10 most valuable Indian U23 players

Recently, the Indian U23 team impressed with an impressive performance in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers.

The Indian U23 men’s football team has been the centre of discussion among Indian football fans for the last few weeks. Their incredible run in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers made the fans push for their selection in the national team. Their calls have also been listened to as nine members of the Indian U23 team have found a place in the senior probable squad for the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.

The U23 boys made the West Asian sides, who have been historically dominant against India, run for their money. Their performance against Qatar was the best of the lot. India could not win the match but were the better side throughout the ninety minutes.

Some of the U23 boys have received widespread attention, particularly after the call-up to the probable squad for the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. Catering to that curiosity, we will look into the ten most valuable Indian U23 players.

10. Hnamte (1.4 Cr)

Hnamte was one of the key figures in the midfield for India in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers. He was the calming figure alongside Fanai in the centre of the park. The Blue Colts had an impressive campaign in terms of defence. India only conceded two goals, which also included a penalty.

Hnamte had a major contribution in this sound defensive outing for Indian in the qualifiers. His well-timed challenges helped India neutralise dangerous moves. The Chennaiyin FC midfielder has the quality to break into the Indian team and cement his place.

9. Nathan Rodrigues (1.4 Cr)

The Mumbai City left-back had a breakout last Indian Super League season. Nathan Rodrigues became a regular for the Islanders in the left-back role. In total, the Goan lad started in 23 matches for Mumbai in the last season.

It was a huge leap for the 21-year-old, considering how important that position has become in modern football. As India goes through a transition, Nathan also has the chance to knock on the national team’s doors if he stays consistent. The next season will be crucial for him.

8. Parthib Gogoi (1.6 Cr)

The young sensation from NorthEast United FC also features in this list. For the last two seasons, Parthib has been one of the hottest properties among young players. His goalscoring ability has turned heads. The electric winger has taken up a significant role in Juan Pedro Benali’s scheme of things.

Parthib could not produce anything substantial in the recently concluded AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers. However, he did not play in his natural position and had to shoulder the responsibility of a No.9, which affected his performance. But the national team call-up shows that he is highly rated by Khalid Jamil.

7. Bikash Yuman (1.6 Cr)

India’s skipper in the U23 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, Bikash Yuman, was a leader at the back. The larger share of the attention got diverted towards the forwards and rightly so, but Bikash, alongside his defensive partners, was one of the primary reasons India could withstand the pressure and play confidently with the ball.

The national team coach has shown faith in the Kerala Blasters defender and made him a part of the probable squad. It will be a great learning curve for the youngster to spend time with experienced campaigners like Sandesh Jhingan and Anwar Ali.

6. Korou Singh (1.6 Cr)

Korou Singh showed last season what he is capable of if he is given opportunities. The Manipuri forward tried to make the most of the chances that he got last season. In 17 appearances, Korou racked up two goals and four assists for Kerala Blasters FC.

Korou is the youngest name in this list, reflecting the immense potential that this lad has. He can be a menace to the opposition in the Indian Super League if he continues to improve his game. The 18-year-old will also be an option for the national team in the long run.

5. Ayush Dev Chhetri (1.8 Cr)

The FC Goa midfield prodigy is fifth among the most valuable U23 players. Ayush Dev Chhetri is becoming a known figure not just for FC Goa fans, but neutrals have also taken note of his performances. In the 2024/25 season, Manolo Marquez used Chhetri quite often, giving him starts in some matches and bringing him on from the bench in others.

He has a notable presence in the deep-lying midfield. Ayush has an immaculate game sense at a young age, which Indian players usually lack. The road is long for him, but his special talent will make it a smooth ride for the Gaur.

4. Thoiba (1.8 Cr)

For Odisha FC, Thoiba was one of the positives in an otherwise underwhelming 2024/25 season. The 22-year-old center back was a regular starter for the Juggernauts, racking up more than 1800 minutes in the last season. Sergio Lobera relied on the youngster to give the backline the solidity.

Not just as a centre back, but he was slotted into the central midfield occasionally. This positional versatility vouches for Thoiba’s untapped potential. Going forward, Odisha FC would see him as one of the key figures of their project who can give them rewards in the long run.

3. Mohammad Sanan (1.8 Cr)

The Jamshedpur FC left-winger had to be in this list. Under Khalid Jamil, he has grown to be one of the brightest prospects Indian Football has to offer right now. The trickster was among the standout performers for India in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers.

His darting runs and skilful manoeuvres on the left wing were a treat to watch. The former Jamshedpur FC manager has called him up for the probable squad, a clear sign that Sanan would be in his plans for the national team.

2. Vibin Mohanan (2 Cr)

The hat-trick hero of India in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers is the second most valuable U23 player. Vibin Mohanan has established himself as one of the inevitables for India going ahead. Sooner or later, he will be a regular in the national team.

The Kerala Blasters FC midfielder has already become an integral part of his club. The previous season made him one of the primary choices in the midfield for the Blasters. Adept at shuffling between roles in the central and defensive midfield, Vibin is an asset for any manager.

1. Abhishek Tekcham (2 Cr)

Without a shadow of doubt, Abhishek Tekcham is the top of the lot among U23 players. After impressing in Punjab FC colours and owning the left-back position there, Abhishek made a big-money move to Mohun Bagan. The 20-year-old left back has already made his national team debut as well.

He missed out on the selection in the CAFA Nations Cup squad and the probable squad for the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers because Mohun Bagan chose not to release him with the AFC Champions League 2 fixtures around the corner. That also shows the place that Abhishek holds in Jose Molina’s plans.

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