India’s U-15 players Win Praise as Football Icons Call for Scientific Development and a Long-Term Pathway
India’s emerging U-15 footballers have earned strong backing from some of the country’s celebrated footballing figures, with Alvito D’Cunha, Bruno Coutinho, Mehtab Hossain and Abdul Khalique stressing the need for a clear, scientific and sustained development pathway for the young generation.
Xtratime Webdesk: India’s emerging U-15 footballers have earned strong backing from some of the country’s celebrated footballing figures, with Alvito D’Cunha, Bruno Coutinho, Mehtab Hossain and Abdul Khalique stressing the need for a clear, scientific and sustained development pathway for the young generation.
India are currently competing at the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup & Festival 2026 in Baku, Azerbaijan, where the youngsters have gained valuable experience against international opposition. For the former India players, however, the tournament should be seen not as a destination, but as the beginning of a much longer journey towards senior football.
D’Cunha praised the team’s character, particularly during their performance against Cameroon, but urged the players to remain focused on their development. “The way they have shown the guts against Cameroon was really outstanding. There’s still a long way to go,” he said.
Bruno Coutinho believes continuity will be crucial as the players move through the age groups. He called for the core group to stay together and gain more opportunities to play as a unit. “The All India Football Federation should keep these guys together and make a solid team to play,” Coutinho said, while also advocating greater international exposure, including opportunities in Europe.
Mehtab Hossain focused on the changing demands of modern football and the need to introduce scientific methods early in a player’s journey. “Football has become completely scientific. So we need to make our players scientific too, physically and mentally,” he said.
Khalique, meanwhile, pointed to the progress made by the current generation compared to previous Indian age-group teams. “Compared to our previous performances in different age groups, this is better. There is some improvement,” he said.
The message from the four footballing figures is ultimately one of patience and continuity. The U-15 World Cup experience can provide a valuable foundation, but the next steps will be equally important. Regular competition, scientific preparation, international exposure and a structured pathway through the U-17, U-18 and U-20 levels could help this promising generation take the next steps towards senior football.
