FIFA rankings: India outside top 100, retain 18th spot in Asia

 

The most recent FIFA rankings, released on Thursday, maintained India's men's team at the 102nd position globally and 18th in Asia. Following an international break, during which they secured one victory and suffered one loss, Igor Stimac's team showcased consistent standings.

In the initial matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, India achieved an auspicious start with a narrow 1-0 triumph over Kuwait City, courtesy of Manvir Singh's late goal. Nevertheless, their momentum was halted by a formidable Qatar side, resulting in a sobering 3-0 defeat in Bhubaneswar.

In light of these contrasting outcomes, India accrued 1.96 points in the latest rankings, bringing their total to 1200.8 points. This places them 1.97 points adrift of the following team in the rankings, Kosovo. Kosovo, with a current tally of 1202.77 points, experienced a noteworthy gain of 12.03 points this month, achieved through victories against Israel and a draw against Switzerland, both teams ranked higher than them.

India achieved their highest FIFA ranking this year at 99th in July, following triumphs in the Intercontinental Cup and SAFF Championship, accumulating 1208.69 points at that time.

However, setbacks in September and October against lower-ranked Lebanon and Malaysia resulted in significant point deductions for India in the FIFA rankings.

Looking ahead, Igor Stimac's team is set to participate in the AFC Asian Cup in January, facing Australia, Uzbekistan, and Syria in Group B. Despite Stimac downplaying the tournament's significance, avoiding losses in matches against higher-ranked teams (Australia, 25th; Uzbekistan, 68th; Syria, 91st) could lead to a notable point increase for India.

The upcoming AFC Asian Cup fixtures include India playing Australia on January 13, Uzbekistan on January 18, and concluding the group stage against Syria on January 23.

Despite Stimac's perspective, the tournament holds substantial importance for India considering the potential points at stake. Meanwhile, global football powerhouses Argentina, France, England, Belgium, and Brazil maintain their positions at the pinnacle of the FIFA rankings.

In the latest transfer speculation, there are rumors connecting Bayern Munich's Kimmich with a potential transfer to Barcelona

As Europe awaits the winter transfer window, Transfer Talk is abuzz with ongoing developments and rumors. The focal point revolves around Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich, who continues to be a viable option for Barcelona, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

While Kimmich, a 28-year-old midfielder, is currently focused on completing the season with Bayern Munich, there's lingering interest from Barcelona, a connection that dates back to the summer. Sources suggest that Kimmich harbors a desire to join manager Xavi Hernandez's team in the future.

Barcelona, in search of a long-term solution for the pivot role in their system, had previously considered Real Sociedad's Martín Zubimendi. However, with ongoing efforts to secure Brazil international forward Vitor Roque in the winter, it seems unlikely that a move for Kimmich will materialize in January.

As Kimmich approaches the final year of his contract, the German international is yet to make a decision about his next move. Barcelona appears poised to gauge the possibility of enticing him away from the Allianz Arena in the upcoming summer transfer window.

TRANSFER TIDBITS

- According to the Daily Mail, Manchester United is eyeing Brentford striker Ivan Toney and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. The Red Devils aim to bolster their squad with more homegrown talent in upcoming transfer windows. However, they might face competition from Arsenal for Toney, who is set to return to action in January. Guehi's potential move could be challenging mid-season, with the Eagles seeking around £60 million for his transfer.

- AC Milan has prioritized Montpellier forward Akor Adams, reveals Calciomercato. The 23-year-old, previously a standout player for Lillestrom, has maintained his impressive form in Ligue 1, scoring seven goals in 13 league matches. Scouts from AC Milan are reportedly gearing up to observe Adams in action during this weekend's clash against Monaco.

TRANSFER UPDATES

- West Ham is contemplating a move for Chelsea defender Ian Maatsen, as per Rudy Galetti. The Hammers, who have previously inquired about the player's availability, are exploring the possibility of a January transfer for the 21-year-old. Maatsen, who has struggled for consistent first-team opportunities this season, had a successful loan spell at Burnley last season, contributing to their promotion to the Premier League.

- Celtic forward Kyogo Furuhashi has caught the attention of Premier League clubs, according to Ekrem Konur. The 28-year-old, who is one of two players under observation by English sides, might be subject to a January approach. Furuhashi, a Japan international, has been influential, contributing to eight goals in 14 league matches this season. He was previously linked with Tottenham Hotspur in the summer following the appointment of his former manager Ange Postecoglou.

- Ahmed Hegazy, the former Premier League centre-back currently with Al Ittihad, is being considered by Burnley and Sheffield United, as per Team Talk. The 32-year-old Egypt international, who seems to have fallen out of favor in the Saudi Pro League, could be available for a January transfer. Additionally, Hegazy has been offered to Scottish clubs Celtic and Rangers.