Chhangte Named Indian Footballer of the Year 2026 by FPAI
Why in the news
The Football Players Association of India (FPAI) announced its annual awards at the end of August 2026. Mizo forward Lallianzuala Chhangte took the top men’s prize for the second time.
Key facts
- Indian Footballer of the Year: Lallianzuala Chhangte, 29, who recently moved to Mohun Bagan from Mumbai City FC. His earlier win came for 2023-24.
- Indian Women’s Player of the Year: Manisha Kalyan.
- Winners are chosen by votes from fellow professionals, not by a jury or fans.
- Football great Bhaichung Bhutia, the FPAI’s founding president, presented the honours.
Other winners
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| I-League Player of the Year | Phrangki Buam |
| Young Player of the Year | Sanan Mohammed K |
| Men’s Coach of the Year | Owen Coyle |
| Women’s Coach of the Year | Anthony Andrews |
| ISL champions | East Bengal FC |
| Indian Women’s League champions | East Bengal FC Women |
About the FPAI
The FPAI is the players’ body of Indian football. Its awards are voted on by players themselves.
Exam angle
- Know the FPAI awards as a players-voted honour.
- Chhangte: Mizoram, Mohun Bagan, second title.
- East Bengal’s league title ended a 22-year gap.