Demography of Indian Football as Manipur holds it all

In 2025, Indian football undergoes a major transition following Sunil Chhetri’s retirement, spotlighting emerging talent from Manipur, Mizoram, Odisha, West Bengal, and Jharkhand in both men’s and women’s national squads.

The year 2025 marks a transitional period for Indian football, especially for the national teams, following the retirement of Sunil Chhetri from Telangana at the age of 40. His departure left the men’s senior squad with a vacancy, reducing the total to 23 players for the current calendar year. This year’s reshuffling also affected the women’s team, resulting in vacancies that now need to be filled. The overall 48-member national squad, including both men’s and women’s teams, reflects the growing diversity of talent across India, with notable contributions from players representing the states of Manipur, Mizoram, Odisha, West Bengal, and Jharkhand.
Manipur continues to play a pivotal role in the women’s squad. With 9 players contracted for the senior team, the state’s footballing legacy is well-represented. Key figures include goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, whose shot-stopping abilities have been a backbone for the team, and defenders Maibam Linthoingambi Devi, Loitongbam Ashalata Devi, Hemam Shilky Devi, and Ngangbam Sweety Devi, who form a strong defensive core. Midfield maestros like Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi, Yumnam Kamala Devi, and Naorem Priyangka Devi ensure that the team controls the tempo and transitions effectively, while striker Dangmei Grace offers the attacking threat, making the most of opportunities in front of goal.
The men’s team also sees significant representation from Manipur with six players under contract. Defensive stalwarts Chinglensana Singh and Naorem Roshan Singh provide much-needed stability at the back, while the midfield is under the command of Suresh Singh and Boris Singh. Up front, the attacking partnership of Naorem Mahesh Singh and Udanta Singh will be key in leading the charge to break down opposition defenses.
Mizoram’s influence on Indian football continues to grow, with defender Valpuia joining the national squad, accompanied by midfielders Ayush Dev Chhetri and Apuia, both of whom add valuable depth to the squad. The inclusion of these players speaks to the strength of Mizoram’s footballing development and the increasing contribution of the northeastern states to the Indian football landscape.
Odisha has two notable inclusions in the women’s team: defender Manisa Panna and striker Pyari Xaxa, both of whom have proven themselves on the domestic stage. Their inclusion is a reflection of Odisha’s growing prominence in women’s football. Meanwhile, West Bengal’s contribution comes in the form of defender Subhasish Bose, who will represent the men’s team, and midfielder Anju Tamang, who will feature for the women’s squad. These players bring a mix of experience and versatility, helping balance the squad.
Jharkhand, though not as heavily represented, contributes striker Sumati Kumari to the women’s team. Kumari’s inclusion underscores the state’s commitment to developing emerging talent in women’s football.
As the national teams move forward, the evolution of Indian football continues with the integration of players from various regions. With a mix of experienced players and rising stars from states like Manipur, Mizoram, Odisha, West Bengal, and Jharkhand, the 2025 squads look set to build on the foundations laid by previous generations. The diverse talent on display is a promising sign for the future of both men’s and women’s football in India.