Australia-born forward Ryan Williams has officially joined the Indian national football team camp in Bengaluru. 

All India Football Federation (AIFF) has confirmed this. He arrived at the camp alongside defender Jay Gupta. Born in Perth, the 32-year-old forward Ryan has given up his Australian passport to become an Indian citizen.

 

 

Williams’ citizenship handover ceremony took place at the Bengaluru FC training facility, with Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri presenting him with his Indian documents. Williams, who has been part of Bengaluru FC since 2023, described the moment as deeply emotional.

 

 

Williams’ inclusion marks a potentially transformative moment for Indian football. The move signals a significant shift in the federation’s approach, opening the pathway for Indian-origin footballers and those willing to relinquish foreign citizenship to represent India at the international level. 

 

 

The AIFF has also invited two overseas-based players – Williams and Abneet Bharti – to the national camp ahead of India’s AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Bangladesh in Dhaka on November 18.