Indian football is growing rapidly day by day. The quality of infrastructure and training has a big impact on producing some excellent players in recent times. Many young players have come to the limelight because of ISL and I-League.
However there some of the highly talented center-backs in India. Here are the top 5 most valuable players in India.
5. Pratik Chaudhari [Bengaluru FC] – ₹1.04 Cr
Pratik Chaudhari is one of the most experienced players in Indian football. The 31 years old defender currently playing for Bengaluru FC. Earlier he has played some of the big clubs like Mohun Bagan, Mumbai City, Kerala Blasters, Delhi Dynamos.
He joined Bengaluru FC in 2020. However, Pratik is not a regular starter of the squad currently.
4. Sumit Rathi [ATK Mohun Bagan] – ₹1.04 Cr
One of the most talented young defender in India. He was named Emerging Player of the Season in 2019/20 ISL. Sumit Rathi is currently playing for ATK Mohun Bagan FC. He has impressed in the limited games he played.
Many believe that he has a bright future if he continues his hard work.
3. Raju Gaikwad [SC East Bengal] – ₹1.04 Cr
Raju Gaikwad has lost his place in Indian Team for a quite a long time. But it does not effect his importance in club football. The 30 years old has a lot to offer. He is currently playing for SC East Bengal. He joined the Red & Golds in January. Since then he is a regular starter of the squad.
Raju Gaikwad is a very versatile defender. He can play as both center-back and full-back.
2. Adil Khan [Hyderabad FC] – ₹1.11 Cr
Adil Khan is a well-famous defender in the Indian circuit. He is also a regular member of the national team. Adil Khan is a highly experienced defender.
Adil Khan currently plays for Hyderbad FC. However, FC Goa took him in loan in January for the remainder of the season.
1. Sandesh Jhingan [ATK Mohun Bagan] – ₹2.08 Cr
Arguably the best Indian defender at present. Sandesh is a rock at the back for both club and country and is without doubt, the most dependable defender in Indian football at present.
The 27 years old had an impressive season with ATK Mohun Bagan FC in 2020-21 season.
