In January 2026, Goalkick Worldwide, the Pune-based football development platform, successfully completed its highly anticipated Bhutan Exposure Tour, taking 16 talented U-17 Indian footballers to the heart of Thimphu for an international experience that promises to redefine grassroots football in India.
Trials Across India: Building the Best Squad
The journey began on 14th December 2025, when Goalkick Worldwide organized nationwide trials in Pune. Over 70 players from Odisha, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and other cities participated, each aiming for a spot on this elite international tour. After a rigorous selection process, 26 players were chosen for a week-long preparatory camp, designed to prepare them for the intense challenge ahead—two international matches against Bhutan’s top professional team.
Thimphu Beckons: Facing Bhutan Premier League Giants
On 20th January 2026, the final 16 players squad traveled to Thimphu, Bhutan, bracing for matches on 23rd and 24th January against Thimphu City FC (U-17), a top-tier team competing in the Bhutan Premier League. The venue was none other than the iconic Changlimithang Football Stadium, perched at 2,300 meters (7,500 ft) above sea level, one of the highest professional football stadiums in the world.
The first match was a formidable challenge. With temperatures dipping to -1°C, even the most extensive warm-ups barely prepared the players for the cold. The home fans filled the stadium with energy, supporting Thimphu City FC, whose players were acclimatized to the frigid conditions. Despite the loss, the Indian boys showcased grit and determination, gaining invaluable experience in a professional international environment.
The second match saw a dramatic improvement in performance. With enhanced teamwork and strategic execution, Goalkick Worldwide’s U-17 squad gave Thimphu City FC a tough contest for the full 90 minutes, demonstrating resilience, skill, and tactical awareness—despite having trained together for only a week.
Meet the Squad: Future Stars of Indian Football
The tour featured 16 exceptional players:
- Bhavesh Dhede (Captain)
- Aadya Gehlot (Goalkeeper)
- Abhinav Kumar, Rohit Jadhav, Kunal Singh, Om Taralkar, Shreenivas Narvekar, Shlok Jadhav, Aarav Deshpande, Vedant Phawade, Zaid Chowhan, Araize Pathan, Chinmay Awati, Ajim Bagwan, Aahad Khan, Anay Burange
Hailing from Satara, Jalgaon, Nashik, Nanded, Kolhapur, Talegaon Dabhade, Mumbai, and Pune, these players not only embraced the challenges of high-altitude football but also gained world-class international exposure.
Beyond Football: Cultural and Professional Experiences
The tour wasn’t just about football. Players explored Thimphu, Paro and Phuentsholing, witnessing Bhutan’s scenic landscapes and iconic landmarks. The experience blended professional sport with cultural immersion, providing a holistic learning environment for young athletes.
Behind the Success: Goalkick Worldwide Management Team
The seamless execution of this tour was orchestrated by the Goalkick Worldwide management team:
- Shubham Marathe – Head Coach & Founder, with 8+ years of coaching experience, former India U-13 Head Coach at FC Augsburg, Germany, and visionary behind Ignesians Football Club, Pune, which has trained over 800+ players and secured 20+ trophies.
- Rajan Musale – Administrative Manager, overseeing logistics and operations.
- Aryan Dhamankar – Assistant Coach & Representative, providing tactical support and player mentorship.
- Om Yadav – Media Assistant, ensuring world-class documentation and media coverage.
Shubham Marathe’s personal brand speaks volumes in Indian football. Under his guidance, two U-13 players from his academy—Aaradhy Patil and Vivaan Chavan—were selected by German Bundesliga clubs Eintracht Frankfurt and FC Augsburg, marking a historic achievement for Indian youth football.
Goalkick Worldwide: Elevating Indian Football to the Global Stage
Founded in 2023, Goalkick Worldwide has rapidly established itself as India’s premier platform for international football exposure, transforming grassroots talent into globally competitive players. The organization has successfully conducted tours in Germany, Nepal, Spain, Bhutan, and upcoming projects include Malaysia and more.
Their mission extends beyond exposure: identifying raw talent, nurturing skills, and connecting players to professional football clubs worldwide. Through partnerships with domestic and international football projects, Goalkick Worldwide is pioneering a pathway for Indian youth to reach the global stage.
Conclusion: Learning, Growth, and Vision
Though the U-17 squad returned without a win, the learning, resilience, and professional experience gained are priceless. Every player returned stronger, smarter, and ready for the challenges of international football.
Goalkick Worldwide’s Bhutan Exposure Tour 2026 exemplifies what’s possible when vision, expertise, and meticulous planning converge, setting new standards for youth football development in India.
For more information about Goalkick Worldwide, upcoming trials, and international exposure opportunities, search on social media for “Goalkick Worldwide” and witness how India’s football future is being shaped.