Club Analyst Amogh Adige joins the set-up as a performance analyst
NorthEast United FC’s First-Team Assistant Coach and Reserve Team Head Coach, Naushad Moosa, has been appointed as the Head Coach of the India U-23 team.
Moosa, 53, a former India international, returns to the U-23 role after leading the side in international friendlies against Malaysia in March 2024. He will begin his new assignment on June 1, when the squad assembles for a preparatory camp.
Moosa’s first challenge will be two upcoming friendlies, against Tajikistan (June 18) and the Kyrgyz Republic (June 21), scheduled to take place in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. He will also oversee the team’s long-term preparations for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, and the AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers later this year.
Joining him in the national set-up is NorthEast United FC’s First-Team Analyst, Amogh Adige, who will once again serve as the team analyst. Adige, 24, had also been part of the India U-23 staff during the Malaysia tour and brings valuable insights from his extensive work with NorthEast United FC.
Moosa expressed pride and excitement about taking charge of the national side for a second consecutive year.
“Representing my country — whether as a player or a coach — is among the greatest honours of my career. It is a proud and exciting moment to lead the U-23 team again,” Moosa said, before adding, “Last year, we laid a strong foundation. The players showed real commitment, and this year we return with more experience and new faces, who I believe will add great strength. The continuity allows us to refine our approach rather than starting from scratch.”
“Continuity from 2024 gives us a head start. Our systems are in place, the players understand the style and expectations, and we can now focus on refining rather than rebuilding,” he said.
The friendlies in June will be crucial as the national team builds up towards the Asian Games and the AFC U-23 Asian Cup.
“These matches are crucial as we prepare for the Asian Games and the AFC U-23 Asian Cup. It’s an opportunity to test our tactical setup, assess players under pressure, and strengthen team cohesion. Facing strong opponents will help us grow and evolve as a unit,” he added.