Chennaiyin FC have unveiled a 24-man all-Indian squad for the upcoming 2025-26 AIFF Super Cup, marking a new chapter in the club’s history under newly appointed head coach Clifford Miranda.
The former India international becomes the first-ever Indian to take charge of the two-time ISL champions, and his side will begin their campaign against Mohun Bagan Super Giant on October 25 at the Fatorda Stadium. Drawn in Group A, Chennaiyin will also face East Bengal FC and Dempo SC, with all matches set to be played in Goa. Clifford Miranda, a veteran of 45 international caps for India and a Super Cup-winning coach with FC Goa, brings both pedigree and perspective to his new role. Having previously managed Goa and Odisha, the 41-year-old is well-versed in the nuances of Indian football and now shoulders the responsibility of guiding Chennaiyin FC through a transitional phase built on domestic talent.
Speaking on the eve of his competitive debut as Chennaiyin boss, Miranda acknowledged the challenges of limited preparation time but remained upbeat about his team’s readiness.
“For most teams, not training for more than five months is always difficult,” he said. “Within a short period of time, we need to turn up and play our first game and then three games in six days. It’s a tough schedule, but that’s football. We are ready, and I truly believe in the players we have. They’re eager to prove themselves, and I’m confident we’ll improve with every match.”
Embracing an All-Indian Identity
This season’s Chennaiyin FC squad will feature no foreign players a bold step underscoring the club’s commitment to nurturing Indian talent. For Miranda, this is not just a technical decision but a statement of belief in the country’s footballing depth.
“It’s an opportunity to show how far we’ve come not just as Chennaiyin FC, but as Indian footballers,” Miranda emphasized. “We need to prove that we can compete and excel on our own. It’s not only about results but about effort, mentality, and attitude. When we play with pride and purpose, no one can take that away from us.”
The squad’s composition reflects that philosophy a blend of experience and youth, with several players earning their shot after strong domestic campaigns.
Squad Breakdown: Depth Across the Field
Chennaiyin’s goalkeeping department will be marshalled by Samik Mitra, MD Nawaz, and Mohanraj K., all capable of stepping into the starting role. The defence looks solid on paper, led by former India international Pritam Kotal, with Mandar Rao Dessai, Ankit Mukherjee, and Vignesh D. providing width and stability on the flanks. In midfield, Miranda can rely on the dynamism of Jiteshwor Singh and Lalrinliana Hnamte, supported by Farukh Choudhary, Jitendra Singh, and Kingslee Fernandes. The front line, spearheaded by Irfan Yadwad, Gurkirat Singh, and Vivek S., offers a mix of power and pace a crucial asset in the demanding group stage schedule.
Joining his coach at the pre-match press conference, Farukh Choudhary spoke about the team’s mindset and the excitement of being part of a new chapter in Chennaiyin’s story.
“It’s been great since I returned to the club after my national team stint,” said Farukh. “The training sessions have been intense even though the time to prepare has been short. Playing three matches in six days is a challenge, but we’re mentally ready. Personally, I’m very happy to be back, and we’re all looking forward to the first match.”
After their opener against Mohun Bagan on October 25, Chennaiyin will take on East Bengal FC on October 28 and Dempo SC on October 31 both matches scheduled at the GMC Athletic Stadium, Bambolim. With Clifford Miranda at the helm and a determined all-Indian unit eager to prove its worth, Chennaiyin FC’s Super Cup campaign represents more than just another tournament it’s a test of faith in homegrown potential and the start of a new identity for the Marina Machans.
Chennaiyin FC’s 24-Man Squad for AIFF Super Cup 2025-26
Goalkeepers: Samik Mitra, MD Nawaz, Mohanraj K.
Defenders: PC Laldinpuia, Ankit Mukherjee, Mandar Rao Dessai, Pritam Kotal, Vignesh D., Laldinliana Renthlei, Sk. Rajjak Ali, Klusner John Manuel Pereira, Raj Basfore
Midfielders: Farukh Choudhary, Jitendra Singh, Maheson Singh, Lalrinliana Hnamte, Jiteshwor Singh, Karthick Thirumalai, Raman Singh Ngangom, Solaimalai R., Kingslee Fernandes
Forwards: Irfan Yadwad, Gurkirat Singh, Vivek S.
