Most Indian footballers face the same problem, limited game time, poor facilities, low pay, and few chances to grow. But in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, UAE, and parts of Europe, football is played at a much higher level. These countries offer well-managed clubs, passionate fans, and international-level coaching.

Indian players who move abroad often return sharper, more confident, and tactically smarter than those who stay in India. The training intensity, discipline, and regular match exposure helps them grow faster.

Where Indian footballers can go for better football and pay?

Many Indian footballers dream of big moves, but they often look too far ahead, like Europe’s top five leagues, instead of starting with realistic, growth-focused destinations. The right move isn’t always the biggest; it’s the one that gives you game time, respect, money, and development. Here are the best options where Indian players are welcome, the competition is better than India, and the pay is worth it:

Indonesia

One of the most passionate football nations in Asia. Their top league, Liga 1, has massive crowds, exciting football, and strong local clubs. Indian players can earn ₹3–6 lakhs/month or more depending on their position. With physical, fast-paced games and experienced foreign teammates, Indian players can grow in confidence and skill. Several ASEAN players have used this league to jump to Korea or Japan later.

Malaysia

Malaysia’s Super League offers a mix of professional setup, good salaries, and cultural familiarity (many people speak English). Clubs like Johor Darul Ta’zim play in the AFC Champions League, giving players international exposure. Indian players can expect salaries from ₹4 to ₹8 lakhs/month if they perform well. This is a perfect league for technical midfielders, quick wingers, or smart goalkeepers.

Thailand

Thailand’s football structure is one of the most developed in Southeast Asia. Thai League 1 and 2 are well-organized, competitive, and constantly scouted by international agents. Foreign players — especially from Asia — are respected. Indian players have a real shot here if they come with match experience and strong fitness. Salary can range from ₹3 to ₹10 lakhs/month. Clubs here also support development off the pitch.

Vietnam

Though less explored by Indian players, Vietnam’s V.League 1 and 2 offer great opportunities. Football is growing fast, with good infrastructure and TV coverage. Salaries vary, but strong foreign players can earn ₹2–5 lakhs/month. Ideal for defenders or midfielders.

UAE

Home to many Indians already, UAE’s Pro League and First Division offer professional contracts, world-class training, and good money. Players can earn ₹5–15 lakhs/month in the top division and ₹2–6 lakhs/month in the second. There’s high competition, but with a great agent and past performance, Indian players can break in, especially in clubs looking for affordable foreign talent.

Bahrain

The Bahraini Premier League has hosted foreign players from across Asia. It’s not as fast-paced as Southeast Asia, but it’s a solid platform for Indians to gain experience, earn around ₹2–6 lakhs/month, and stay match fit. Easier visas and travel make this a low-risk move.

Georgia, Kosovo, Armenia (Europe)

These countries offer Indian players a pathway into European football without needing a big agent or huge transfer fees. The leagues are open, and clubs often participate in UEFA competitions, giving rare international exposure. Salaries start around ₹2–5 lakhs/month, and players can get noticed by scouts from Turkey, Russia, or even Eastern Europe. These leagues are ideal for players with strong technical ability and discipline.

What Indian players gain from overseas leagues?

• Higher salaries than I-League or state leagues
• Professional coaching and better facilities
• Playing against international players regularly
• Confidence boost from being a key foreign player
• More attention from Indian national team selectors
• Potential moves to even bigger leagues in Asia or Europe

What about the language barrier?

One common concern is the language barrier. But in reality, it’s not as big a problem as players think. In most Asian countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and UAE, football communication is simple and often in basic English or through body language. Coaches and players from different countries deal with this daily.

Many foreign clubs also offer translators or have bilingual staff to help new signings adjust. Indian players usually adapt quickly, especially since most football instructions are repeated actions, not long conversations.

In fact, overcoming this small challenge helps players grow mentally, become independent, and more mature, skills that help on and off the pitch.

Has anyone from India played in foreign football leagues?

Yes, there are several examples of Indian players who have played or are currently playing abroad while holding Indian nationality. Though rare, these cases prove it’s possible with the right talent, effort, and guidance. 

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu became the first Indian to play in a top-tier European club when he joined Stabaek FC in Norway and even played in UEFA Europa League qualifiers. Ishan Pandita is another standout example, he trained and played with Spanish clubs like CD Leganés U-19, Pobla de Mafumet CF, and Lorca FC, before returning to India. Brandon Fernandes, Deepak Tangri, and Ridge Demello trained with clubs in Portugal, gaining valuable European exposure in their youth. Ashique Kuruniyan had a short stint with Villarreal C in Spain through a club partnership. Dhanraj Singh was one of the earliest Indians to play in England’s lower leagues back in the 1990s.

Final Word

Staying in your comfort zone can only take you so far. If you’re an Indian player with real ambition, playing abroad could be the turning point in your career. You’ll face new challenges, new styles of football, and stronger competition, and that’s exactly what helps you grow. The players who take this step often return with better fitness, sharper game sense, and a deeper understanding of what it means to be a professional. You don’t need to wait for the perfect offer, you need to start somewhere that pushes you forward. Opportunities in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe are real, accessible, and open to Indian talent.

The question is: are you ready to take the leap? Because the difference between an average career and a great one… could simply be one brave decision to go abroad.