A Creative Engine in India’s Midfield
Anirudh Thapa has long been regarded as one of Indian football’s most technically gifted midfielders, and his role remains central to how the national team tries to build attacks through the middle of the pitch.
Current Status
- Remains a key midfield option in India’s national team setup under Khalid Jamil
- Known for his passing range and ability to dictate tempo from midfield
- Continues to be one of the more experienced midfield options alongside Brandon Fernandes
- Part of the squad that competed in India’s recent Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign
Working Through a Difficult Team Cycle
Thapa’s creative influence has been tested during a period where India’s overall attacking output, covered in our roundup of the team’s toughest results in 2026, has struggled for consistency. Finding a reliable midfield partnership remains one of the squad’s ongoing challenges.
A Midfield Partnership Still Taking Shape
Thapa’s understanding with Brandon Fernandes in central midfield continues to be a work in progress, with both players looking to find a more settled balance between defensive responsibility and creative freedom.
A Building Block for the Future
As India looks toward the next World Cup qualifying cycle, covered in our latest team update, Thapa’s continued development is likely to remain important, particularly as younger midfield options featured in our players to watch list push for opportunities.
Conclusion
Anirudh Thapa remains one of the more technically accomplished midfielders available to India, and his continued growth will be an important factor as the national team rebuilds heading into the next international cycle.