Leadership is the backbone of any successful football team, and for Indian football, the captain’s armband represents not just tactical responsibility but the spirit, resilience, and legacy of a nation striving to make its mark on the global stage. As we step into 2025, Indian football finds itself at a historic crossroads: the legendary Sunil Chhetri has returned from retirement, but the captaincy now rests with the dependable and commanding goalkeeper, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.
This transition symbolises the passing of the torch from an era-defining icon to a new generation of leaders ready to carry Indian football forward. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer the most searched questions: Who is the current captain? Who is the vice-captain? Who was the first captain? And what does the future hold for Indian football’s leadership?
Who is the Current Captain of the Indian Football Team? (2025)
As of 2025, the captain of the Indian national football team is Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.
Appointed captain following Sunil Chhetri’s brief retirement in early 2024, Gurpreet has seamlessly stepped into the leadership role. A towering figure between the posts and a calm presence on the pitch, Gurpreet brings over a decade of international experience, with more than 80 caps for India. He made history in 2016 as the first Indian goalkeeper to play in a top-tier European league (Norway’s Stabæk FC), and since then, he has been a mainstay for both club (Bengaluru FC) and country.
Why Gurpreet Singh Sandhu?
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) and coaching staff chose Gurpreet for several compelling reasons:
- Leadership Qualities: Known for his vocal presence, organisational skills, and ability to rally the defence, Gurpreet naturally commands respect in the dressing room.
- Seniority and Experience: As one of the most experienced players in the squad, his understanding of international football is invaluable.
- Consistent Performance: Gurpreet has delivered match-winning performances in crucial tournaments like the 2019 and 2023 AFC Asian Cups and the 2023 Intercontinental Cup.
- Smooth Transition: With Chhetri stepping back, Gurpreet offered continuity as a bridge between the golden generation and the emerging talents.
His appointment also marks a rare instance of a goalkeeper leading the national team, a testament to his influence and the trust placed in him by coaches and teammates alike.
Sunil Chhetri’s Role in 2025 – Still a Pillar of the Team
In a stunning turn of events, Sunil Chhetri, India’s all-time top scorer, former captain and fourth-highest international goal scorer in men’s football history, came out of retirement in March 2025 to rejoin the squad for the World Cup qualifiers, as reported by Hindustan Times.
Though he no longer wears the captain’s armband, Chhetri’s presence is more vital than ever. At 40+, he remains a mentor, motivator, and match-winner. His return is not just about goals, it’s about guiding the next generation through high-stakes matches.
Legacy and Influence:
- Fourth-highest international goal scorer of all time (behind only Cristiano Ronaldo, Ali Daei, and Lionel Messi).
- Led India to multiple titles: 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, 2021 and 2023 SAFF Championships, 2023 Intercontinental Cup.
- Captain from 2012–2024, making him the longest-serving and most successful captain in Indian football history.
Chhetri’s role in 2025 is that of a senior statesman; his experience in qualifiers and big tournaments is irreplaceable. Younger players like Liston Colaco, Rahul Bheke, and Naorem Mahesh Singh look up to him for guidance, both on and off the pitch.
His return sends a powerful message: leadership isn’t always about the armband. Sometimes, it’s about showing up when your team needs you most.
Read More: History of Indian Football
Who is the Vice-Captain of the Indian Football Team?
As of 2025, the vice-captain of the Indian football team is Rahul Bheke, who was named alongside Gurpreet Singh Sandhu when the new leadership structure was announced in 2024.
Rahul Bheke: The Reliable Deputy
A versatile defender capable of playing both centre-back and right-back, Bheke has been instrumental in India’s recent successes. He scored the winning goal in the 2023 Intercontinental Cup final against Lebanon and has consistently delivered under pressure.
Key Achievements:
- An integral part of India’s 2023 AFC Asian Cup squad.
- Played crucial roles in ISL title wins with Mumbai City FC and Bengaluru FC.
- Known for his discipline, tactical awareness, and aerial prowess.
In matches where Gurpreet has been rested or substituted, Bheke has stepped up as captain, proving his readiness to lead. His calm demeanour and defensive solidity make him the perfect vice-captain to support Gurpreet.
Who Was the First Captain of the Indian Football Team?
The honour of being India’s first official captain in a globally recognised tournament goes to Talimeren Ao.
He led India at the 1948 London Olympics, the nation’s first appearance on football’s biggest international stage. Wearing barefoot (as the team couldn’t afford boots), Ao and his teammates earned global respect with a valiant 2-1 loss to France.
Why Talimeren Ao Matters
- A qualified medical doctor who balances profession and passion.
- Symbolised the grit and determination of early Indian football.
- His leadership laid the foundation for future generations.
Before Ao, players like Gostha Pal (1924) and Karuna Bhattacharya (1938) captained regional or AIFF-organised tours, but Ao’s captaincy at the Olympics is universally recognised as the starting point of India’s official international football journey.
Captain and Vice-Captain of the Indian Women’s Football Team
While the men’s team garners headlines, the Indian Women’s Football Team is rapidly rising, and its leadership is equally inspiring.
As of 2025:
- Captain: Ashalata Devi, a rock-solid centre-back with over 60 caps. She has been a key figure in India’s campaigns and continues to anchor the defence with experience and composure.
- Vice-Captain: No officially confirmed vice-captain at present. While several senior players provide leadership on the pitch, the All India Football Federation has not announced a permanent deputy to Ashalata Devi.
Under Ashalata Devi’s captaincy, the women’s team has shown remarkable growth, earning respect across Asia. Her leadership mirrors the men’s side in experience, resilience, and tactical intelligence.
Timeline of Indian Football Team Captains (Past to Present)
Here’s a quick reference table of key captains, based on data from Wikipedia :
| Timeline | Captain | Major Milestones |
| 1948 | Talimeren Ao | 1948 Olympics (First official captain) |
| 1949–1954 | Sailen Manna | 1951 and 1954 Asian Games Gold |
| 1962–1964 | Chuni Goswami | 1962 Asian Games Gold, 1964 Asian Cup runners-up |
| 1995–1999 | Bruno Coutinho | 1997 SAFF Gold Cup |
| 2000–2011 | Bhaichung Bhutia | 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, 2011 Asian Cup |
| 2012–2024 | Sunil Chhetri | 2019, 2023 Asian Cups; 2021, 2023 SAFF Championships; All-time top scorer |
| 2024–Present | Gurpreet Singh Sandhu | 2023 Intercontinental Cup, 2025 WC Qualifiers |
How the Captain and Vice-Captain Are Selected
The selection is a collaborative decision by the AIFF technical committee and the head coach. Key criteria include:
- Leadership and Communication: Ability to motivate, organise, and represent the team.
- Experience and Consistency: Proven track record in high-pressure matches.
- Respect in the Dressing Room: Peer recognition is crucial.
- Long-Term Vision: The captain should embody the team’s future direction.
The transition from Chhetri to Gurpreet is a textbook example of thoughtful succession planning, ensuring stability while empowering the next leader.
Conclusion – The Future of Indian Football Leadership
With Gurpreet Singh Sandhu at the helm and Sunil Chhetri still contributing on the pitch, Indian football is in a unique and enviable position. Gurpreet’s leadership provides stability, while Chhetri’s presence accelerates the development of young stars.
Looking ahead, names like Sandesh Jhingan (former vice-captain), Liston Colaco, and Naorem Mahesh Singh are being groomed for future leadership roles. The pipeline is strong, and the culture of leadership is deeper than ever.
Follow the AIFF’s official channels or bookmark this page for real-time updates on captaincy changes, squad announcements, and match analyses.
The future of Indian football isn’t just bright, it’s being led with purpose.
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Frequently Asked Questions
He announced his retirement in January 2024 but returned in March 2025 for the World Cup qualifiers. He is currently an active player but not the captain.
Chhetri is the 4th highest international goal scorer in men’s football history, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo, Ali Daei, and Lionel Messi.
While possible, it’s unlikely. The AIFF and coaching staff are focused on building around Gurpreet Singh Sandhu as the long-term leader. Chhetri’s role is now more mentor than captain.
Nagendra Prasad Sarbadhikari is often called the “Father of Indian Football” for introducing the sport to his classmates in Calcutta in the 1880s and founding India’s first football organisations.
The Calcutta FC, founded in 1872, is recognised as India’s (and Asia’s) first football club. It was initially formed by British soldiers but soon included Indian players.
Ashalata Devi is the current captain. The All India Football Federation has not officially named a vice-captain for the team, though senior players like Indumathi Kathiresan often provide leadership support on the field.
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