With India set to face Thailand in a friendly ahead of the crucial AFC Asian Cup qualifier away to Hong Kong on June 10, head coach Manolo Márquez — who also led FC Goa to the Super Cup final — has been keeping a close eye on the ongoing Kalinga Super Cup.
Although the Super Cup allows clubs to field six foreign players — unlike the ISL limit of four — which has limited Indian-player exposure in some teams, clubs like Mohun Bagan, Mumbai City FC and Punjab FC have relied more heavily on their domestic talent. While foreign players have dominated the goal-scoring charts so far, several standout Indian performances have emerged that could influence Márquez’s selection as he prepares to transition fully into national team duties after the tournament.
Suhail Bhat (Mohun Bagan SG)
The young Kashmiri striker didn’t get much game time in a star-studded Mohun Bagan squad during the ISL season, but he seized his opportunity in the Super Cup. Suhail scored in both his appearances — each goal a result of intelligent movement and clinical finishing. Both strikes came from similar moves: he made clever runs inside the box to meet Ashique Kuruniyan’s low crosses from the left. Having trained alongside top names like Jamie Maclaren, Jason Cummings, and Manvir Singh, Suhail has clearly absorbed the nuances of forward play. With India still looking for a dependable successor to Sunil Chhetri, Suhail may just be the prodigy worth investing in.
Abhishek Singh (Punjab FC)
Known for scouting and promoting young talent, Punjab FC have once again struck gold with Abhishek Singh. Already attracting interest from several ISL clubs for the upcoming transfer window, the young full-back — primarily a left-sided player — impressed with his high work rate and defensive discipline. While he hasn’t scored or assisted, his influence down the flank has been consistent throughout the tournament. Abhishek received a call-up during India’s last international fixture against Bangladesh but is yet to make his debut. Given his potential, Márquez might consider bringing him into the squad once again in June to groom him for the future.
Albino Gomes (Jamshedpur FC)
Despite Jamshedpur conceding the most goals in the ISL season, Albino Gomes stood out with 104 saves and four penalty stops. He has continued that form in the Super Cup, yet to concede a goal ahead of the final. A seasoned campaigner, Albino has surprisingly never been called up to the national team. His recent performances, however, make a strong case. With his calm presence and grit under the bar, he could add healthy competition to India’s goalkeeping unit.
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Ashique Kuruniyan (Mohun Bagan SG)
Despite an injury-plagued season and limited minutes in the ISL, Ashique was included in the squad for India’s match against Bangladesh. In the Super Cup, he has shown why he remains a valuable asset when fully fit. Providing two assists, both to Suhail Bhat, Ashique has reminded fans and selectors alike of his flair and speed. His versatility down the left flank and ability to create from wide areas could earn him another call-up.
Deepak Tangri (Mohun Bagan SG)
A player who has previously been in the national team setup under Igor Stimac, Tangri is yet to feature under Márquez. Like Ashique and Suhail, the Super Cup became a platform for Tangri to reassert his credentials. Donning the captain’s armband for Mohun Bagan in the absence of key players, Tangri demonstrated solid midfield control and leadership. Even in the 3–1 defeat to Goa — in front of Márquez himself — Tangri’s composed performance in the middle of the park didn’t go unnoticed.
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