A wave of revival has swept through Bangladeshi football. The arrival of several expatriate players has added momentum to the national team. Now, India wants to replicate this “formula” used by Bangladesh.
Traditionally, the Indian national football team has not included expatriate players. However, due to the team’s recent poor performances, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) is looking to change that policy. According to Indian media reports, an AIFF official has stated that a formal request has been made to the central government to allow expatriate Indians to play for the national team. The government is currently reviewing the proposal seriously.
Indian football is currently going through a tough period. In the Asian Cup qualifiers, the team remains winless after two matches — a goalless draw against Bangladesh in the first match and a 0-1 loss to Hong Kong in the second. Following this disappointing run, Indian football fans on social media have been demanding that expatriate players be given a chance to represent the national team, just like Bangladesh.
Taking note of the public sentiment, the AIFF has begun discussions with the government regarding the inclusion of expatriates. In an effort to improve Indian football, they are now attempting to adopt the approach taken by Bangladesh.
