Sources: 
India's U-23 football team has embarked on a tour of Tajikistan, spotlighting the rise of local talents Nikhil Barla and Mohammed Sanan.
The 23-member squad, led by head coach Naushad Moosa, left for Tajikistan on June 16, 2025, following intensive training at the AIFF National Centre of Excellence in Kolkata since June 1.
Barla, hailing from Khunti, has impressed through his performances in the Jamshedpur FC youth setup, marking him as a promising talent in Indian football.
Mohammed Sanan, aged 20, is a standout player from the Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC) who joined Jamshedpur FC in the 2023-24 season.
He has scored 5 goals and provided 3 assists in the Indian Super League this season, establishing himself as a regular starter.
The tour includes friendly matches against Tajikistan and Kyrgyz Republic, providing valuable international exposure to the young squad.
"This tour is a crucial step for our young players to gain experience and showcase their talent on an international stage," said head coach Naushad Moosa.
The inclusion of Barla and Sanan highlights the growing football talent emerging from Jamshedpur and the broader Indian football ecosystem, signaling a positive future for the sport in the country.
The team’s preparation and upcoming matches are keenly watched by fans and experts eager to see India’s next generation of football stars make their mark.
Sources: India's U-23 football team, featuring rising stars Nikhil Barla and Mohammed Sanan, departed for a Tajikistan tour on June 16, 2025. The 23-player squad, coached by Naushad Moosa, will play friendlies against Tajikistan and Kyrgyz Republic after training in Kolkata since June 1.
