From Kerala to global stage: Indian-origin footballers set to shine at FIFA World Cup 2026

The wait for the FIFA World Cup is almost going to be over! Yes, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is almost here, and while Team India won't be taking the field in the United States, Canada and Mexico, football fans from the country still have something to cheer about.

In a plot twist straight out of a sports anime, several players with Indian roots are set to compete on football's biggest stage, proving that the Indian connection extends far beyond national borders.


For young fans who grew up watching Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe dominate the game, seeing players with Indian heritage share the same tournament feels like a major moment.

From Kerala to Punjab, these footballers carry stories that connect different cultures, identities and continents. Here are the Indian-origin stars who will be representing other nations at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

If there is one player creating the biggest buzz among Indian football fans, it is the 19-year-old Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid. Born in Doha to parents from Kannur, Kerala, the young winger has earned a place in Qatar's World Cup squad and is set to make history as the first Malayali footballer to be named in a FIFA World Cup squad.

He is known for his pace and attacking flair; Tahsin represents the new generation of football talent emerging from Qatar.

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Many football fans might already know Sarpreet Singh's name. Singh was born in New Zealand to Punjabi parents; the creative midfielder became one of the most talked-about talents from Oceania after earning a move to Bayern Munich earlier in his career.


At 27, Singh is now one of New Zealand's most experienced playmakers and a key figure in the All Whites setup. His vision, passing and ability to control the pace of a match make him one of the team's most important players heading into the tournament.

Australia's squad features another player with Indian roots in Nishan Velupillay. Born in Melbourne to a family of Tamil heritage, the winger has steadily established himself as an exciting attacking option for both club and country.

Known for his speed and direct style of play, Velupillay has become a familiar face in the Socceroos squad. With Australia focusing on a deep World Cup run, he could have a big role to play on football's grandest stage.

Representing DR Congo, Samuel Moutoussamy brings experience and leadership to the midfield. The 29-year-old has Tamil roots through his mother and has already earned more than 50 international appearances.

Moutoussamy is currently playing in the Greek Super League. He is known for his work rate, defensive discipline, and ability to dictate play from midfield. As DR Congo returns to the World Cup spotlight, he will be one of the team's key players.


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