In a landmark move that could reshape the future of Indian football, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has named two overseas-based players — centre-back Abneet Bharti and winger Ryan Williams — in the national camp in Bengaluru ahead of India’s AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Bangladesh in Dhaka on November 18.

The stories of the two new call-ups could not be more different, yet both converge at a crucial juncture for Indian football.

Who are Abneet Bharti and Ryan Williams?

27-year-old Bharti was born in Kathmandu and has spent years carving an unconventional career path across South America, Europe and Africa. His journey has included stints that would seem improbable for most Indian footballers and he currently plays in the Bolivian league. Bharti had moved away from the

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