Sandesh Jhingan
{{Short description|Indian footballer (born 1993)}}
{{EngvarB|date=October 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2020}}
{{Infobox football biography
| name = Sandesh Jhingan
| image = Sandesh Jjhingan 2019 AFC AsianCup.jpg
| image_size = 250px
| caption = Jhingan with India at the 2019 AFC Asian Cup
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1993|7|21|df=y}}
| birth_place = Chandigarh, India
| height = {{height|m=1.88}}
| position = Centre-back
| currentclub = Goa
| clubnumber = 3
| youthyears1 = {{0|0000}}–2011
| youthclubs1 = St Stephen's Academy
| years1 = 2011–2013
| clubs1 = United Sikkim
| caps1 = 21
| goals1 = 2
| years2 = 2013–2014
| clubs2 = Mumbai
| caps2 = 11
| goals2 = 0
| years3 = 2014–2020
| clubs3 = Kerala Blasters
| caps3 = 76
| goals3 = 0
| years4 = 2015
| clubs4 = → Sporting Goa (loan)
| caps4 = 11
| goals4 = 1
| years5 = 2016
| clubs5 = → DSK Shivajians (loan)
| caps5 = 7
| goals5 = 0
| years6 = 2017
| clubs6 = → Bengaluru (loan)
| caps6 = 11
| goals6 = 1
| years7 = 2020–2021
| clubs7 = Mohun Bagan
| caps7 = 22
| goals7 = 0
| years8 = 2021
| clubs8 = HNK Šibenik
| caps8 = 0
| goals8 = 0
| years9 = 2021–2022
| clubs9 = Mohun Bagan
| caps9 = 9
| goals9 = 0
| years10 = 2022–2023
| clubs10 = Bengaluru
| caps10 = 22
| goals10 = 0
| years11 = 2023–
| clubs11 = Goa
| caps11 = 26
| goals11 = 2
| nationalyears1 = 2014–2023
| nationalteam1 = India U23
| nationalcaps1 = 10{{efn-lg|Appearances as an overage player (four appearances in 2022 Asian Games)}}
| nationalgoals1 = 0
| nationalyears2 = 2015–
| nationalteam2 = India
| nationalcaps2 = 66
| nationalgoals2 = 5
| medaltemplates = {{MedalSport|Men's football}} {{Medal|Country|{{fb|IND}}}}
{{MedalCompetition|SAFF Championship}}
{{Medal|W| 2023 India|}}
| club-update = 19:25, 18 March 2023 (UTC)
| ntupdate = 22:00, 13 January 2024 (UTC)
}}
Sandesh Jhingan (born 21 July 1993) is an Indian professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Indian Super League club Goa and the Indian national team.{{cite web|url=https://www.the-aiff.com/article/indian-football-down-the-years-looking-back-at-the-glorious-moments#|title=Indian Football Down the Years: Looking back at the glorious moments|first=AIFF|last=Media Team|website=www.the-aiff.com|publisher=All India Football Federation|language=en|trans-title=|location=New Delhi|agency=|date=15 August 2022|access-date=20 October 2022|archive-date=21 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220921011335/https://www.the-aiff.com/article/indian-football-down-the-years-looking-back-at-the-glorious-moments}}
He won the AIFF emerging player of the year award in 2014 and made his debut for the India national side in 2015. In 2020, Jhingan was honoured with the Arjuna Award, the second-highest sporting honour of India. He is also the recipient of the 2020–21 AIFF Men's Player of the Year Award.{{Cite news|agency=PTI|date=2021-07-21|title=Jhingan named AIFF men's Footballer of Year, Suresh wins Emerging Player award|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/jhingan-named-aiff-mens-footballer-of-year-suresh-wins-emerging-player-award/article35446021.ece|access-date=2021-07-21|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=21 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210721124918/https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/jhingan-named-aiff-mens-footballer-of-year-suresh-wins-emerging-player-award/article35446021.ece|url-status=live}}
Club career
=Early career: 2011–14=
Born in Chandigarh, Jhingan received his football training at the St Stephen's Academy.{{cite news|title=Sandesh Jhingan – Young Star Of Kerala Blasters|url=http://www.redbull.com/in/en/stories/1331686081342/sandesh-jhingan-young-star-of-kerala-blasters|access-date=10 October 2016|work=Red Bull|date=22 October 2014|archive-date=11 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011141455/http://www.redbull.com/in/en/stories/1331686081342/sandesh-jhingan-young-star-of-kerala-blasters|url-status=live}} While with the academy, Jhingan helped the side reach the South-East Asian finals of the Manchester United Premier Cup. He also represented the Chandigarh state team at the under-19 level, helping them win the B.C. Roy Trophy.{{cite news|last1=Lundup|first1=Tashi|title=The Curious Case of Sandesh Jhingan|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/the-curious-case-of--sandesh-jhingan/1083626/3|access-date=10 October 2016|work=The Indian Express|date=6 March 2013|archive-date=26 July 2014|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140726100925/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/the-curious-case-of--sandesh-jhingan/1083626/3|url-status=live}}
After impressive performances for his state side and academy team, Jhingan received a call-up to attend trials at I-League 2nd Division side United Sikkim in November 2011. The trials were successful and he signed for the club the next month. Playing alongside former India internationals, Bhaichung Bhutia and Renedy Singh, Jhingan helped United Sikkim earn promotion to the I-League after the 2012 season.
In a June 2020 interview, Jhingan said that he was rejected by many second and third division clubs in Kolkata. He said, "It was during the starting phase of my career. Back then I was looking for clubs and I appeared for quite a few trials at a number of clubs in Kolkata — even in the second and third divisions. But I was rejected by all."{{Cite web|date=2020-06-07|title=Was rejected by lower-division teams in Kolkata initially: Sandesh Jhingan|url=https://www.thestatesman.com/sports/rejected-lower-division-teams-kolkata-initially-sandesh-jhingan-1502897399.html|access-date=2020-06-07|website=The Statesman|language=en-US|archive-date=7 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200607152947/https://www.thestatesman.com/sports/rejected-lower-division-teams-kolkata-initially-sandesh-jhingan-1502897399.html|url-status=live}}
Jhingan made his senior professional debut in the I-League on 6 October 2012 in United Sikkim's first match of the season against Salgaocar. Jhingan started the match and lasted the whole ninety minutes and scored the winning goal for United Sikkim as they won 3–2.{{cite web|title=United Sikkim 3–2 Salgaocar|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2012/10/06/india/i-league/united-sikkim-sc/salgaocar-sports-club/1394143/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=21 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181121205326/https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2012/10/06/india/i-league/united-sikkim-sc/salgaocar-sports-club/1394143/|url-status=live}} He then scored his second goal for the club on 18 November 2012 against Sporting Goa. His goal was the only one for United Sikkim as they lost 2–1.{{cite web|title=Sporting Goa 2–1 United Sikkim|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2012/11/18/india/i-league/sporting-club-de-goa/united-sikkim-sc/1394178/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=6 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160506061757/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2012/11/18/india/i-league/sporting-club-de-goa/united-sikkim-sc/1394178/|url-status=live}} Despite United Sikkim suffering from relegation at the end of the season and conceding a league high 63 goals, Jhingan was noticed to be a bright talent from the team.{{cite news|title=Sandesh Jhingan – Kerala Blasters FC|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/slideshow/8969|access-date=10 October 2016|work=Goal.com|date=8 October 2014|archive-date=18 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018195532/http://www.goal.com/en-india/slideshow/8969|url-status=live}} In February 2013 it was reported that Jhingan was receiving interest from Chinese League One clubs and that he would head to China for trials.{{cite news|last1=Mohan|first1=Srinivasan|title=China calling for United Sikkim's Sandesh Jhingan – report|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2013/02/07/3732703/china-calling-for-united-sikkims-sandesh-jhingan-report|access-date=10 October 2016|work=Goal.com|date=7 February 2013|archive-date=18 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018193756/http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2013/02/07/3732703/china-calling-for-united-sikkims-sandesh-jhingan-report|url-status=live}} However, selection into the India national team meant that Jhingan could not attend trials.
After the 2012–13 season, Jhingan signed a contract with Indian Super League to eventually be part of the competition which was to start in 2014.{{cite news|title=Sandesh Jhingan: I am still optimistic of playing for an I-League club|url=http://www.goal.com/en-sg/news/3952/asia/2013/11/05/4383979/sandesh-jhingan-i-am-still-optimistic-of-playing-for-an-i-league-|access-date=10 October 2016|work=Goal.com|date=5 November 2013|archive-date=28 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160328170653/http://www.goal.com/en-sg/news/3952/asia/2013/11/05/4383979/sandesh-jhingan-i-am-still-optimistic-of-playing-for-an-i-league-|url-status=live}} Despite struggling to sign a contract with an I-League club before the ISL began, Jhingan did reject an offer from Dempo. "Dempo is a big club and to receive an offer from them in itself was a big thing for me. There is no doubt that being associated with the club and playing under coach Arthur Papas would have benefitted me as a player. However, I don't regret my decision," Jhingan said in an interview. In November 2013 it was reported that Jhingan had signed with Rangdajied United on loan for the remainder of the season.{{cite news|last1=Ghoshal|first1=Amoy|title=Rangdajied United to loan Gouramangi, Subrata and three more IMG-R players|url=http://www.sportskeeda.com/football/i-league-rangdajied-united-to-loan-gouramangi-subrata-and-three-more-img-r-players|access-date=10 October 2016|work=SportsKeeda|date=11 November 2013|archive-date=11 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011152738/http://www.sportskeeda.com/football/i-league-rangdajied-united-to-loan-gouramangi-subrata-and-three-more-img-r-players|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Rangdajied Bolster Their Squad With National Stars |url=http://i-league.org/?p=9291 |work=I-League |access-date=27 November 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202231641/http://i-league.org/?p=9291 |archive-date=2 December 2013 |df=dmy-all }} However, not long after, it was announced that Jhingan had instead signed for Mumbai for the rest of the I-League campaign. He made his debut for the club on 7 December 2013 against Pune. Jhingan started the match and played for the whole match as Mumbai won 2–1.{{cite web|title=Pune 1–2 Mumbai|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2013/12/07/india/i-league/pune-fc/mumbai-fc/1585363/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=12 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200312123011/https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2013/12/07/india/i-league/pune-fc/mumbai-fc/1585363/|url-status=live}}
A few weeks later, on 15 December, Jhingan received a red card for a second yellow offense in a match against Rangdajied United. Despite being ejected, Mumbai still drew the match 1–1.{{cite web|title=Rangdajied United 1–1 Mumbai|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2013/12/15/india/i-league/arhima-club/mumbai-fc/1585379/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=26 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160426005416/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2013/12/15/india/i-league/arhima-club/mumbai-fc/1585379/|url-status=live}}
=Kerala Blasters: 2014–2020=
==2014: Emerging Player of the Season==
On 22 July 2014, a day after his 21st birthday, Jhingan was selected in the second round of the 2014 ISL Inaugural Domestic Draft by the Kerala Blasters.{{cite news|last1=Ghoshal|first1=Amoy|title=ISL domestic player draft: Mumbai and Kerala pick four India internationals each|url=http://www.sportskeeda.com/football/isl-domestic-player-draft-mumbai-and-kerala-pick-four-india-internationals-each|access-date=10 October 2016|work=SportsKeeda|date=22 July 2014|archive-date=8 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160308120312/http://www.sportskeeda.com/football/isl-domestic-player-draft-mumbai-and-kerala-pick-four-india-internationals-each|url-status=live}} He appeared on the bench for the side in their opening match of the season against NorthEast United.{{cite web|title=NorthEast United 1–0 Kerala Blasters|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/10/13/india/indian-super-league/northeast-united/kerala-blasters/1931475/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=26 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226190838/https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/10/13/india/indian-super-league/northeast-united/kerala-blasters/1931475/|url-status=live}} Despite not playing in the first match, Jhingan did start for the Blasters in their second match of the season against Chennaiyin. He started the match and put in a good performance but could not prevent the Kerala Blasters from losing 2–1.{{cite web|title=Chennaiyin 2–1 Kerala Blasters|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/10/21/india/indian-super-league/chennai-titans/kerala-blasters/1931483/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=7 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307092748/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/10/21/india/indian-super-league/chennai-titans/kerala-blasters/1931483/|url-status=live}} From that point Jhingan remained a constant presence for the Kerala Blasters throughout the 2014 season, appearing 14 times for the side. His performance for the Kerala Blasters helped earn Jhingan the "Emerging Player of the League" award.{{cite news|title=ISL Emerging Player of the League, Sandesh Jhingan, joins Sporting Clube de Goa|url=http://www.indiansuperleague.com/news/1939-isl-emerging-player-of-the-league-sandesh-jhingan-joins-sporting-clube-de-goa|access-date=10 October 2016|work=Indian Super League|date=8 February 2015|archive-date=11 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011143850/http://www.indiansuperleague.com/news/1939-isl-emerging-player-of-the-league-sandesh-jhingan-joins-sporting-clube-de-goa|url-status=live}}
On 20 December 2014, Jhingan started for the Kerala Blasters in the 2014 Indian Super League Final against Atlético de Kolkata. Despite putting in a valiant performance, Jhingan could not prevent Atlético de Kolkata from taking the title as the Kerala Blasters fell 1–0.{{cite web|title=Kerala Blasters 0–1 Atletico de Kolkata|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/12/20/india/indian-super-league/kerala-blasters/atletico-de-kolkata/1974793/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=24 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171124085047/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/12/20/india/indian-super-league/kerala-blasters/atletico-de-kolkata/1974793/|url-status=live}}
==2015==
Loan to Sporting Goa
On 8 February 2015, after the 2014 ISL season, Jhingan signed with Sporting Goa on loan for the 2014–15 I-League. He made his debut for the club on the same day against Mumbai. He started and played the full match as Sporting and Mumbai drew 0–0.{{cite web|title=Mumbai 0–0 Sporting Goa|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2015/02/08/india/i-league/mumbai-fc/sporting-club-de-goa/1980990/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=18 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518222945/https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2015/02/08/india/i-league/mumbai-fc/sporting-club-de-goa/1980990/|url-status=live}}
2015 ISL Season
After the conclusion of the season, Jhingan was retained by the Kerala Blasters for the 2015 season and in the process became the highest paid Indian player in the league, earning more than 10 million.{{cite news|last1=Gupta|first1=Shalini|title=Defender Sandesh Jhingan becomes Indian Super League's first Indian crorepati|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/defender-sandesh-jhingan-becomes-isls-first-indian-crorepati/|access-date=10 October 2016|work=The Indian Express|date=16 May 2015|archive-date=11 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011150217/http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/defender-sandesh-jhingan-becomes-isls-first-indian-crorepati/|url-status=live}} Despite his performances from last season, which also earned Jhingan interest from abroad, he was not able to replicate the same quality in 2015. Despite being partnered at times with former Spanish international Carlos Marchena and former Newcastle United defender Peter Ramage, Jhingan and the Blasters conceded a league worst 27 goals and finished last in the table.{{cite news|last1=Muralidharan|first1=Ashwin|title=Indian Super League Team Analysis: Kerala Blasters FC|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/7083/isl/2015/12/17/18446222/indian-super-league-team-analysis-kerala-blasters-fc|access-date=10 October 2016|work=Goal.com|date=17 December 2015|archive-date=28 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170828234432/http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/7083/isl/2015/12/17/18446222/indian-super-league-team-analysis-kerala-blasters-fc|url-status=live}}
==2016==
Loan to DSK Shivajians
On 4 March 2016, after the 2015 ISL season, it was announced that Jhingan would join I-League side DSK Shivajians on loan from the Kerala Blasters.{{cite news|title=Sandesh Jhingan joins DSK Shivajians on-loan from KBFC|url=http://www.indiansuperleague.com/news/3581-sandesh-jhingan-pens-deal-with-dsk-shivajians|access-date=10 October 2016|work=Indian Super League|date=4 March 2016|archive-date=11 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011150942/http://www.indiansuperleague.com/news/3581-sandesh-jhingan-pens-deal-with-dsk-shivajians|url-status=live}} He made his debut for the side two days later on 6 March against East Bengal. He started the match and played the full ninety minutes as DSK Shivajians won the match 2–0.{{cite web|title=DSK Shivajians 2–0 East Bengal|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/03/06/india/i-league/dsk-shivajians/east-bengal-club-fc/2177581/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=3 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170703055719/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/03/06/india/i-league/dsk-shivajians/east-bengal-club-fc/2177581/|url-status=live}}
==2016 ISL season==
Because of his solid performance at the defence and due to immense pressure from fans, Jhingan was once again retained in the draft by the Kerala Blasters for the 2016 season.{{cite news|title=ISL 2016: Kerala Blasters FC squad – A comprehensive guide|url=http://www.sportskeeda.com/football/isl-2016-kerala-blasters-fc-squad-comprehensive-guide|access-date=10 October 2016|work=SportsKeeda|date=1 October 2016|archive-date=11 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011152536/http://www.sportskeeda.com/football/isl-2016-kerala-blasters-fc-squad-comprehensive-guide|url-status=live}} In the first match of the season, Jhingan was placed at right-back as the center of defense was taken up by Aaron Hughes and Cédric Hengbart. Kerala Blasters lost the match 1–0.{{cite web|title=NorthEast United 1–0 Kerala Blasters|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/10/01/india/indian-super-league/northeast-united/kerala-blasters/2348820/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=12 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161112024350/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/10/01/india/indian-super-league/northeast-united/kerala-blasters/2348820/|url-status=live}} The next match saw Jhingan return to his preferred center back role after Hughes left for FIFA World Cup qualification. The result did not improve as the Kerala Blasters were defeated 1–0 by Atlético de Kolkata.{{cite web|title=Kerala Blasters 0–1 Atletico de Kolkata|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/10/05/india/indian-super-league/kerala-blasters/atletico-de-kolkata/2348831/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=24 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171124005105/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/10/05/india/indian-super-league/kerala-blasters/atletico-de-kolkata/2348831/|url-status=live}} For the rest of the season, after Hughes returned, Jhingan stayed primarily as a right-back, earning praise for his performances which helped the Blasters to reach their second Indian Super League final in three seasons.{{cite news|title=Constantine: KBFC look invincible in Kochi|url=http://www.indiansuperleague.com/news/5461-constantine-kbfc-look-invincible-in-kochi|access-date=22 December 2016|work=Indian Super League|date=17 December 2016|archive-date=20 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220221131/http://www.indiansuperleague.com/news/5461-constantine-kbfc-look-invincible-in-kochi|url-status=live}}
==Loan to Bengaluru==
On 12 January 2017, another I-League club, Bengaluru, announced the signing of Jhingan on a season long loan deal from the Kerala Blasters.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2017/01/12/31423402/i-league-201617-bengaluru-fc-fortify-defence-with-the-capture-of-|title=I-League 2016/17: Bengaluru FC fortify defence with the capture of Sandesh Jhingan|first=Ashwin|last=Muralidharan|date=12 January 2017|work=Goal.com|access-date=12 January 2017|archive-date=13 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170113144201/http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/1064/i-league/2017/01/12/31423402/i-league-201617-bengaluru-fc-fortify-defence-with-the-capture-of-|url-status=live}} He made his debut for the club six days later in a league match against Mumbai as a 71st-minute substitute for Harmanjot Khabra as Bengaluru won 3–0.{{cite web|title=Bengaluru FC 3–0 Mumbai|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/01/18/india/i-league/bengaluru/mumbai-fc/2383748/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=30 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180630192707/https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/01/18/india/i-league/bengaluru/mumbai-fc/2383748/|url-status=live}} Jhingan started his first match on 11 February 2017 against Minerva Punjab in a 1–1 draw.{{cite web|title=Bengaluru FC 1–1 Minerva Punjab|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/02/11/india/i-league/bengaluru/india-minerva-fc/2383773/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=26 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826184933/https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/02/11/india/i-league/bengaluru/india-minerva-fc/2383773/|url-status=live}}
On 14 March 2017, Jhingan played in his first career club continental match when he started for Bengaluru in an AFC Cup match against fellow Indian side Mohun Bagan. He scored the equalizing goal for Bengaluru, his first for the club, in the 51st minute to tie the score at 1–1 before Sunil Chhetri scored the winner for the club six minutes later as the club achieved a 2–1 victory.{{cite web|title=Bengaluru FC 2–1 Mohun Bagan|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/03/14/asia/afc-cup/bengaluru/mohun-bagan-ac/2401023/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=26 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826143532/https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/03/14/asia/afc-cup/bengaluru/mohun-bagan-ac/2401023/|url-status=live}} He scored his second goal for the club, and only goal in the league, on 22 April 2017 against his former club DSK Shivajians. His 90th-minute goal was the last in a 7–0 rout by Bengaluru.{{cite web|title=Bengaluru FC 7–0 DSK Shivajians|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/04/22/india/i-league/bengaluru/dsk-shivajians/2433183/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=26 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826125003/https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/04/22/india/i-league/bengaluru/dsk-shivajians/2433183/|url-status=live}}
On 21 May 2017, Jhingan was part of the squad that helped Bengaluru FC win the 2016–17 Federation Cup, beating Mohun Bagan 2–0 in the final as Jhingan won his first top tier piece of silverware.{{cite news|title=Bengaluru FC wins Fed Cup|url=http://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/bengaluru-fc-wins-fed-cup/article18520163.ece|access-date=7 July 2017|work=The Hindu|date=21 May 2017|archive-date=17 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717153650/https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/bengaluru-fc-wins-fed-cup/article18520163.ece|url-status=live}}
==2017–18 ISL: Assuming captaincy and final years at the Blasters==
On 8 July 2017, it was announced that Jhingan has been retained by the Blasters for the 2017–18 season after he signed a long-term contract that made him the highest paid defender in the Indian Super League.{{cite news|last1=Tennyson|first1=Rayson|title=Sandesh Jhingan is India's most expensive defender|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-super-league/top-stories/sandesh-jhingan-is-indias-most-expensive-defender/articleshow/59500303.cms|access-date=21 December 2017|work=The Times of India|date=8 July 2017|archive-date=24 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170824065235/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-super-league/top-stories/sandesh-jhingan-is-indias-most-expensive-defender/articleshow/59500303.cms|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Sandesh Jhingan - I grew as a player as well as a person at Kerala Blasters {{!}} Goal.com|url=https://www.goal.com/en-in/news/sandesh-jhingan-transfer-clubs-kerala-blasters-isl-indian/18vrygpjvqqif1gvxasm79l8gi|access-date=2020-09-26|website=www.goal.com|language=en|archive-date=17 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717153652/https://www.goal.com/en-in/news/sandesh-jhingan-transfer-clubs-kerala-blasters-isl-indian/18vrygpjvqqif1gvxasm79l8gi|url-status=live}} Jhingan was one of three Indian players retained by the Kerala Blasters, the others being C.K. Vineeth and Prasanth Karuthadathkuni, and the deal he signed reportedly kept him at the club until 2020, paying him ₹38 million.
On 16 November 2017, a day before the Kerala Blasters' first match of the season against ATK, Jhingan was announced as the captain of the Blasters for the upcoming season.{{cite web|title=Sandesh Jhingan captain|url=https://twitter.com/KeralaBlasters/status/931066334342873088|website=Kerala Blasters FC (Twitter)|access-date=21 December 2017|archive-date=9 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109032203/https://twitter.com/KeralaBlasters/status/931066334342873088|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Sandesh Jhingan: Great feeling to be appointed Kerala captain|url=https://www.indiansuperleague.com/interviews/sandesh-jhingan-great-feeling-to-be-appointed-kerala-captain|access-date=2022-01-04|website=Indian Super League|date=23 November 2017 |language=en|archive-date=23 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123134358/https://www.indiansuperleague.com/interviews/sandesh-jhingan-great-feeling-to-be-appointed-kerala-captain|url-status=live}}
He continued as the captain in the following 2018–19 season. Before the beginning of the 2019–20 season, he was ruled out for the entire season due to ACL injury.{{Cite web|title=Indian Football: Sandesh Jhingan Undergoes Successful Surgery on Injured Knee|url=https://www.news18.com/news/football/indian-football-sandesh-jhingan-undergoes-successful-surgery-on-injured-knee-2377717.html|date=2019-11-07|website=News18|access-date=2020-05-21|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803125442/https://www.news18.com/news/football/indian-football-sandesh-jhingan-undergoes-successful-surgery-on-injured-knee-2377717.html|url-status=live}}
On 21 May 2020, Kerala Blasters announced they have parted ways with Jhingan on mutual consent.{{Cite web|title=Blasters confirm Jhingan exit, retire no. 21 jersey|url=https://www.espn.in/football/kerala-blasters-fc/story/4098056/kerala-blasters-confirm-sandesh-jhingan-is-leaving-retire-no-21-jersey|date=2020-05-22|website=ESPN|language=en|access-date=2020-05-22|archive-date=31 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200531151311/https://www.espn.in/football/kerala-blasters-fc/story/4098056/kerala-blasters-confirm-sandesh-jhingan-is-leaving-retire-no-21-jersey|url-status=live}} When we parted ways, it was mutual and it was a mature decision from both ends. If my decision to leave Kerala was about money, I would have done that long ago when I had much-better offers. I remained loyal because I loved the project, the club and the fans. I’ve given my all to the club. I’ve played with stitches, concussions and muscle problems. Kerala Blasters will always remain a part of me. Nobody can take that away. Jhingan said about his decision of leaving the Blasters.{{Cite news|title=ATK Mohun Bagan's long-term project is addictive: Jhingan - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/atk-mohun-bagans-long-term-project-is-addictive-jhingan/articleshow/78521619.cms|access-date=2020-10-07|website=The Times of India|date=7 October 2020 |language=en|archive-date=7 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201007193630/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/atk-mohun-bagans-long-term-project-is-addictive-jhingan/articleshow/78521619.cms|url-status=live}}
As a tribute to his contributions to the club, Blasters permanently retired his jersey number 21.{{Cite news|title=Kerala Blasters retire Sandesh Jhingan's jersey - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-super-league/top-stories/kerala-blasters-retire-sandesh-jhingans-jersey/articleshow/75871946.cms|website=The Times of India|date=21 May 2020 |language=en|access-date=2020-05-21|archive-date=16 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200616063624/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-super-league/top-stories/kerala-blasters-retire-sandesh-jhingans-jersey/articleshow/75871946.cms|url-status=live}} But the Blasters later brought back the jersey in April 2022 after Jhingan was involved in a controversy by making a sexist comment after a match against the Blasters during his second tenure at ATK Mohun Bagan.{{Cite web |title=Sandesh Jhingan: സന്ദേശ് ജിങ്കാന് മറുപടി, 21-ാം നമ്പര് ജേഴ്സി തിരികെ കൊണ്ടുവന്ന് കേരള ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സ് |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/football-sports/kerala-blasters-to-bring-back-sandesh-jhingan-s-jersey-number-21-rap3c9 |access-date=2022-04-21 |website=www.asianetnews.com |archive-date=7 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220507000657/https://www.asianetnews.com/amp/football-sports/kerala-blasters-to-bring-back-sandesh-jhingan-s-jersey-number-21-rap3c9 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=Apr 21, 2022 |title=Bijoy Varghese inherits Sandesh Jhingan's retired No. 21 shirt at Kerala Blasters {{!}} Football News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-super-league/top-stories/bijoy-varghese-inherits-sandesh-jhingans-retired-no-21-shirt-at-kerala-blasters/articleshow/90985679.cms |access-date=2022-04-22 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=21 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220421170415/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-super-league/top-stories/bijoy-varghese-inherits-sandesh-jhingans-retired-no-21-shirt-at-kerala-blasters/articleshow/90985679.cms |url-status=live }}
=ATK Mohun Bagan: 2020–2021 =
On 26 September 2020, ATK Mohun Bagan announced the signing of Jhingan on a 5-year deal.{{Cite web|date=26 September 2020|title=ATK sign Indian defender Sandesh Jhingan|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-superleague/atk-mohun-bagan-sign-indian-defender-sandesh-jhingan/articleshow/78333754.cms|access-date=14 October 2020|website=The Times Of India|archive-date=17 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717153652/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-superleague/atk-sign-indian-defender-sandesh-jhingan/articleshow/78333754.cms|url-status=live}} He was chosen as one of the 5 captains of the team. Jhingan's partnership with Tiri in the backlne helped ATK Mohun Bagan to keep 10 clean sheets throughout the season in 22 matches. He was featured in all matches except one where he picked up an injury after a collision with his team's goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharya against Hyderabad. ATK Mohun Bagan finished as runners up in the playoffs and was qualified for the AFC Cup 2022. They finished second in the league table behind Mumbai City.
= HNK Šibenik: 2021–2022 =
Despite having a five-year deal with ATK Mohun Bagan, Jhingan's contract had clauses which allowed him to move to a European club upon receiving an offer.{{Cite web|author=Marcus Mergulhao|date=Aug 11, 2021|title=Sandesh Jhingan agrees terms with Croatian top-tier club HNK Sibenik {{!}} Goa News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/sandesh-jhingan-agrees-terms-with-croatian-top-tier-club-hnk-sibenik/articleshow/85221421.cms|access-date=2021-08-11|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=11 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210811132625/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/sandesh-jhingan-agrees-terms-with-croatian-top-tier-club-hnk-sibenik/articleshow/85221421.cms|url-status=live}} On 18 August 2021, Croatian First Football League side Šibenik announced the signing of Jhingan on a one-year deal with an option to extend for another year, becoming the first Indian to play in Croatia.{{Cite web|title=Sandesh Jhingan joins Croatian first division side HNK Sibenik|url=https://www.espn.in/football/atk-mohun-bagan/story/4456275/sandesh-jhingan-joins-croatian-first-division-side-hnk-sibenik%3fplatform=amp|date=18 August 2021|website=espn.in|access-date=18 August 2021|archive-date=18 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818134042/https://www.espn.in/football/atk-mohun-bagan/story/4456275/sandesh-jhingan-joins-croatian-first-division-side-hnk-sibenik%3Fplatform=amp|url-status=live}}[https://int.soccerway.com/teams/croatia/hnk-sibenik/505/transfers/ HNK Šibenik: transfers] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817051153/https://int.soccerway.com/teams/croatia/hnk-sibenik/505/transfers/ |date=17 August 2021 }} int.soccerway.com. Retrieved 17 August 2021 Three days since signing the contract, Jhingan sustained a calf injury 30 hours prior to the next match day.{{Cite web|date=2021-08-23|title=Sandesh Jhingan Will Have to Wait for His HNK Sibenik Debut After Sustaining Calf Injury|url=https://www.news18.com/news/football/sandesh-jhingan-will-have-to-wait-for-his-hnk-sibenik-debut-after-sustaining-calf-injury-4116170.html|access-date=2021-08-30|website=News18|language=en|archive-date=30 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210830112056/https://www.news18.com/news/football/sandesh-jhingan-will-have-to-wait-for-his-hnk-sibenik-debut-after-sustaining-calf-injury-4116170.html|url-status=live}}
He returned to training in early October.{{Cite web|agency=Tribune News Service|title=Sandesh Jhingan back to training in Croatia|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/chandigarh/pvt-hospitals-to-pool-oxygen-cylinders-in-case-of-3rd-wavepurohit-to-review-action-on-standing-commit-320580|access-date=2021-10-26|website=The Tribune|language=en|archive-date=26 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026151834/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/chandigarh/pvt-hospitals-to-pool-oxygen-cylinders-in-case-of-3rd-wavepurohit-to-review-action-on-standing-commit-320580|url-status=live}} After nearly two-month long injury, he made it to matchday squad in a league match against Slaven Belupo on 22 October. However he didn't get any minutes as he was benched throughout the game.{{Cite web|date=2021-10-22|title=HNK Šibenik - Slaven Belupo 1:1 - Croatian Football Federation|url=https://hns-cff.hr/en/matches/50707112/hnk-sibenik-slaven-belupo-1-1/|access-date=2021-10-24|website=Croatian Football Federation|language=en|archive-date=24 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211024092101/https://hns-cff.hr/en/matches/50707112/hnk-sibenik-slaven-belupo-1-1/|url-status=live}} He was again benched in the next match against Hrvatski Dragovoljac on 30 October.{{Cite web|title=Hrv. Dragovoljac - HNK Šibenik 1:1 - Croatian Football Federation|url=https://hns-cff.hr/en/matches/50707119/hrv-dragovoljac-hnk-sibenik-1-1/|access-date=2021-11-04|website=Croatian Football Federation|archive-date=4 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104183404/https://hns-cff.hr/en/matches/50707119/hrv-dragovoljac-hnk-sibenik-1-1/|url-status=live}}
= Second stint at ATK Mohun Bagan: 2022 =
During the 2022 January transfer window, Jhingan returned to ATK Mohun Bagan after parting ways with Šibenik. He signed a short-term contract with the club.{{Cite web |date=2022-01-11 |title=After Jhingan's premature return from Croatia, Indian football must face hard facts |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/after-an-early-end-jhingans-croatia-sojourn-indian-football-must-face-hard-facts-7715581/ |access-date=2022-07-28 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=28 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220728140934/https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/after-an-early-end-jhingans-croatia-sojourn-indian-football-must-face-hard-facts-7715581/ |url-status=live }} Jhingan totally played in nine matches during the 2021–22 season. On 28 July 2022, ATK Mohun Bagan announced the departure of Jhingan after the expiry of his contract.{{Cite web |last=Sarkar |first=Uttiyo |date=2022-07-28 |title=ATK Mohun Bagan part ways with Sandesh Jhingan |url=https://khelnow.com/football/isl-2022-23-atk-mohun-bagan-fc-sandesh-jhingan-leaves-departure-official/ |access-date=2022-07-28 |website=Khel Now |language=en-US |archive-date=28 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220728141829/https://khelnow.com/football/isl-2022-23-atk-mohun-bagan-fc-sandesh-jhingan-leaves-departure-official |url-status=live }}
= Bengaluru FC: 2022–2023 =
On 14 August 2022, Bengaluru FC announced the signing of Jhingan on a one-year deal.{{Cite web |last=Biswas |first=Joseph |date=2022-08-14 |title=Sandesh Jhingan joins Bengaluru FC on one-year deal |url=https://khelnow.com/football/isl-2022-23-bengaluru-fc-sign-centre-back-sandesh-jhingan-official/ |access-date=2022-08-15 |website=Khel Now |language=en-US |archive-date=15 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220815072544/https://khelnow.com/football/isl-2022-23-bengaluru-fc-sign-centre-back-sandesh-jhingan-official |url-status=live }}
= FC Goa: 2023–present =
In June 2023, Jhingan was signed by FC Goa on a three-year deal.{{Cite web |last=Sportstar |first=Team |date=2023-06-20 |title=ISL 2023-24: FC Goa confirms the signing of Sandesh Jhingan on a three-year deal |url=https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/fc-goa-complete-sandesh-jhingan-transfer-confirmation-till-2026-isl-2023-24-indian-super-league-football-news/article66989788.ece |access-date=2024-10-14 |website=Sportstar |language=en}}
International career
=Youth=
After his triumph for his state team at the B.C. Roy Trophy, Jhingan was called up to the India under-19 side. Injuries however meant that Jhingan could not attend.{{cite news|last1=Rai|first1=Saurabh|title=Bhaichung Is The 'God of Indian Football': Sandesh Jhingan|url=http://feverpitch.in/interview.php?stateid=50&intvid=19&interview=Bhaichung-Is-The-%E2%80%9CGod-of-Indian-Football%E2%80%9D:-Sandesh-Jhingan|access-date=10 October 2016|work=FeverPitch|date=26 September 2012|url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140726100936/http://feverpitch.in/interview.php?stateid=50&intvid=19&interview=Bhaichung-Is-The-%E2%80%9CGod-of-Indian-Football%E2%80%9D:-Sandesh-Jhingan|archive-date=26 July 2014}} Jhingan was then called up to the senior India side in February 2013 for their preparatory camp but once again an injury kept him off the team.
Prior to the 2013 SAFF Championship, Jhingan was selected to be part of the India national team.{{cite news|title=SAFF Championship 2013: Team Profile – India|url=http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/2773/saff-championship/2013/08/27/4215462/saff-championship-2013-team-profile-india|access-date=10 October 2016|work=Goal.com|date=27 August 2013|archive-date=18 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018193853/http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/2773/saff-championship/2013/08/27/4215462/saff-championship-2013-team-profile-india|url-status=live}} In September 2014, Jhingan was selected into the India under-23 side that would play in the 2014 Asian Games.{{cite news|title=Nine Hero ISL players in India under-23 Asian Games squad|url=http://www.indiansuperleague.com/fc-pune-city/news/316-nine-hero-isl-players-in-india-under-23-asian-games-squad|access-date=10 October 2016|work=Indian Super League|date=9 September 2014|archive-date=11 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011143852/http://www.indiansuperleague.com/fc-pune-city/news/316-nine-hero-isl-players-in-india-under-23-asian-games-squad|url-status=live}} Jhingan made his international debut at this level in India's opening match against the United Arab Emirates on 15 September 2014. He started the match and gave an own goal as India lost 5–0.{{cite web|title=UAE U23 5–0 India U23|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/09/15/asia/asian-games/uae-u23/india-u23/1925161/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=10 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171010104440/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2014/09/15/asia/asian-games/uae-u23/india-u23/1925161/|url-status=live}}
=Senior=
After his performance during the 2014 ISL season, Jhingan made his senior international debut for India against Nepal in the country's 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier. Jhingan started the match and played the full ninety minutes as India won 2–0.{{cite web|title=India 2–0 Nepal|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2015/03/12/asia/wc-qualifying-asia/india/nepal/2012936/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=19 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160419000749/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2015/03/12/asia/wc-qualifying-asia/india/nepal/2012936/|url-status=live}} Jhingan then scored his first international goal for India on 29 March 2016 against Turkmenistan. His goal was the only one though for India as they fell 2–1.{{cite web|title=India 1–2 Turkmenistan|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/03/29/asia/wc-qualifying-asia/india/turkmenistan/2028668/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=6 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170906023556/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/03/29/asia/wc-qualifying-asia/india/turkmenistan/2028668/|url-status=live}} Jhingan then scored his second goal for India on 7 June 2016 against Laos. His 48th-minute goal was one of six as India won 6–1.{{cite web|title=India 6–1 Laos|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/06/07/asia/asian-cup-qualification/india/laos/2228188/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907024700/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/06/07/asia/asian-cup-qualification/india/laos/2228188/|url-status=live}}
Prior to the qualifiers for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup, Jhingan scored his third international career goal when he scored in the 54th minute in an international friendly against Cambodia on 22 March 2017. His strike was the third for India as they went on to win 3–2.{{cite web|title=Cambodia 2–3 India|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/03/22/world/friendlies/cambodia/india/2413771/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=19 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171119201833/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/03/22/world/friendlies/cambodia/india/2413771/|url-status=live}} He then scored his fourth goal for India in another international friendly, on 6 June 2017, against Nepal. The goal was the first for India as they won 2–0.{{cite web|title=India 2–0 Nepal|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/06/06/world/friendlies/india/nepal/2426999/|website=Soccerway|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=19 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171119160423/http://int.soccerway.com/matches/2017/06/06/world/friendlies/india/nepal/2426999/|url-status=live}} Jhingan was then handed the India national team captaincy by head coach Stephen Constantine before their friendly matches against Mauritius and St. Kitts and Nevis in the absence of regular captain Sunil Chhetri.{{cite news|last1=Alva|first1=Suraj|title=Sandesh Jhingan should be playing in bigger league, says Stephen Constantine|url=http://www.asianage.com/sports/football/200817/sandesh-jhingan-should-be-playing-in-bigger-league-says-stephen-constantine.html|access-date=21 December 2017|work=Asian Age|date=20 August 2017|archive-date=22 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222104844/http://www.asianage.com/sports/football/200817/sandesh-jhingan-should-be-playing-in-bigger-league-says-stephen-constantine.html|url-status=live}} Speaking after the match against Mauritius, in which India won 2–1, Constantine praised Jhingan, saying "Sandesh is a player who should be playing in a bigger league. He is a fighter and leads by example." A couple months later, on 11 November, India secured qualification for the Asian Cup when they defeated Macau 4–1. Jhingan started that match, thus starting in all four of India's qualification matches up till that point, and helped India keep the clean sheet against Macau, Myanmar, and Kyrgyzstan.{{cite news|title=Want to dominate in Asia: Sandesh Jhingan|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/want-to-dominate-in-asia-sandesh-jhingan/articleshow/61606906.cms|access-date=21 December 2017|work=The Times of India|date=11 November 2017|archive-date=22 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222071020/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/want-to-dominate-in-asia-sandesh-jhingan/articleshow/61606906.cms|url-status=live}}
In 2018 Intercontinental Cup, Jhingan was a wall at the back for the Indian team. The Indian defense led by him got 3 clean sheets out of 4 matches and they won the tournament by defeating Kenya in the final.{{Cite web|title=India win 2018 Intercontinental Cup {{!}} Goal.com|url=https://www.goal.com/en-in/news/india-win-2018-intercontinental-cup-final-kenya-mumbai/130u9ampl52hw1jwjfmabqpjec|access-date=2020-06-06|website=www.goal.com|archive-date=6 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606040847/https://www.goal.com/en-in/news/india-win-2018-intercontinental-cup-final-kenya-mumbai/130u9ampl52hw1jwjfmabqpjec|url-status=live}}
In a friendly match against a stronger Chinese side on 13 October 2018, Jhingan was named as the captain and the match ended 0–0. It was the first time that India were undefeated on Chinese soil.{{Cite web|date=2018-10-13|title=India's defence, Gurpreet Sandhu stand tall in 0-0 draw against China|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/india-vs-china-draw-gurpreet-sandhu-5400855/|access-date=2020-06-06|website=The Indian Express|language=en|archive-date=6 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606040848/https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/india-vs-china-draw-gurpreet-sandhu-5400855/|url-status=live}}
File:India NT at 2019 AFC Asian Cup.jpg
The 2019 AFC Asian Cup was the tournament where Jhingan performed at his full potential during his first 5 years with the national side. In the first match of the tournament against Thailand, India defeated them by a score of 4–1. Jhingan's performance during the match was praised by several football pundits. Even though India was defeated by a stronger UAE by 2–0, in the next match they were at the verge of reaching the pre-quarter of the tournament. They only needed a draw against Bahrain in their last group match. India was able to hold them for 90-minute.But an injury time penalty conceded by Pronay Halder costed them the game and they were eliminated from the tournament.{{Cite web|date=January 15, 2019|title=AFC Asian Cup: India lose 0-1 to Bahrain, crash out of AFC Asian Cup|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/india-lose-0-1-to-bahrain-crash-out-of-afc-asian-cup/articleshow/67532323.cms|access-date=2020-06-06|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=16 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190116141948/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/india-lose-0-1-to-bahrain-crash-out-of-afc-asian-cup/articleshow/67532323.cms|url-status=live}}
9 September was the last time that Jhingan played for India in 2019. In a crucial away match against Qatar for the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification, the match ended 0-0. He suffered an ACL injury later that month in a pre-friendly match and was reported to be sidelined for the next 6 months. He missed all the remaining 4 matches in this period due to this injury. His absence seriously affected the Indian team and they were at the bottom of the table when 5 matches were completed. They even ended up in a draw against a weaker Bangladesh side. Bangladesh assistant coach Stuart Watkiss even said that the absence of Sandesh Jhingan for their Group E Asian Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup was slightly advantageous for them. "I mean, obviously the two defenders are very good players. Sandesh is excellent, not only defending but he's a big threat from set pieces," he told the reporters.{{Cite web|title=Sandesh Jhingan's absence slightly advantageous for us: Bangladesh assistant coach|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/sport/football/2019/oct/12/sandesh-jhingans-absence-slightly-advantageous-for-us-bangladesh-assistant-coach-2046616.html|access-date=2020-06-06|website=The New Indian Express|date=12 October 2019 |archive-date=6 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606040849/https://www.newindianexpress.com/sport/football/2019/oct/12/sandesh-jhingans-absence-slightly-advantageous-for-us-bangladesh-assistant-coach-2046616.html|url-status=live}}
Jhingan made his comeback to the national team on 25 March 2021 in a friendly against Oman, where he also captained the side.{{Cite web|date=2021-03-25|title=India vs Oman, Match Highlights: Manvir Singh's equaliser sees India grind out draw under immense pressure |url=https://www.firstpost.com/sports/india-vs-oman-match-highlights-manvir-singhs-equaliser-sees-india-grind-out-draw-under-immense-pressure-9463261.html|access-date=2021-03-25|website=Firstpost|archive-date=25 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210325162108/https://www.firstpost.com/sports/india-vs-oman-match-highlights-manvir-singhs-equaliser-sees-india-grind-out-draw-under-immense-pressure-9463261.html|url-status=live}}
Personal life
On 21 August 2020, Jhingan became the twenty seventh footballer to win the Arjuna Award.{{Cite web|title=Indian football: Sandesh Jhingan wins Arjuna Award, Sukhwinder Singh bags Dhyan Chand Award {{!}} Goal.com|url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/indian-football-sandesh-jhingan-wins-arjuna-award/wyg0fppwdrg91qks8a582mxw9|access-date=2020-08-21|website=www.goal.com|archive-date=17 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717153650/https://www.goal.com/en/news/indian-football-sandesh-jhingan-wins-arjuna-award/wyg0fppwdrg91qks8a582mxw9|url-status=live}} Jhingan is a supporter of the Premier League club Manchester United.{{Cite web|title=Sandesh Jhingan: I've been a big fan of Manchester United for many years|url=https://www.indiansuperleague.com/features/sandesh-jhingan-ive-been-a-big-fan-of-manchester-united-for-many-years|access-date=2021-02-22|website=Indian Super League|date=4 November 2017 |language=en|archive-date=17 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717153642/https://www.indiansuperleague.com/features/sandesh-jhingan-ive-been-a-big-fan-of-manchester-united-for-many-years|url-status=live}}
He is married to Ivanka Pavlova, a photographer from Russia.{{Cite news|title=Star India footballer Sandesh Jhingan marries Russian photographer Ivanka Pavlova|language=en|work=The Free Press Journal|url=https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/star-india-defender-sandesh-jhingan-ties-the-knot-with-russian-photographer-ivanka-pavlova|access-date=2021-12-08|archive-date=8 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211208143448/https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/star-india-defender-sandesh-jhingan-ties-the-knot-with-russian-photographer-ivanka-pavlova|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Former Kerala Blasters captain Sandesh Jhingan ties the knot with Russian photographer Ivanka|url=https://www.onmanorama.com/sports/football/2021/12/07/sandesh-jhingan-marries-russian-ivanka-pavlova.html|access-date=2021-12-08|website=OnManorama|archive-date=8 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211208143449/https://www.onmanorama.com/sports/football/2021/12/07/sandesh-jhingan-marries-russian-ivanka-pavlova.html|url-status=live}}
= Controversy =
On 19 February 2022, Jhingan made headlines for making a 'sexist comment' after a match with ATK Mohun Bagan against his former club Kerala Blasters.{{Cite news|date=2022-02-21|title=ISL: Sandesh Jhingan faces flak for sexist comment after match|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-60458739|access-date=2022-02-21|archive-date=21 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220221173050/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-60458739|url-status=live}} In an Instagram story posted by ATK Mohun Bagan after the match concluded, Jhingan was heard saying "We have played a match with women, with women".{{Cite web|title=ISL: Sandesh Jhingan sparks controversy with 'played with women' comment {{!}} Goal.com|url=https://www.goal.com/en-sg/news/isl-sandesh-jhingan-controversy-played-with-women-comment/blte68fff5c92b59634|access-date=2022-02-21|website=www.goal.com|archive-date=21 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220221173050/https://www.goal.com/en-sg/news/isl-sandesh-jhingan-controversy-played-with-women-comment/blte68fff5c92b59634|url-status=live}} He was met with immediate criticism by the fans, and the hashtag #BringBack21 trended on Twitter with Kerala Blasters fans urging the club management to revert the decision of retiring the number 21 jersey after Jhingan had left the club.{{Cite web|date=2022-02-20|title=Sandesh Jhingan's Sexist Comment Causes Uproar on Social Media, ATKMB Star Tenders 'Unconditional Apology'|url=https://www.news18.com/news/football/sandesh-jhingans-sexist-comment-causes-uproar-on-social-media-atkmb-star-tenders-unconditional-apology-4792688.html|access-date=2022-02-21|website=News18|language=en|archive-date=21 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220221173050/https://www.news18.com/news/football/sandesh-jhingans-sexist-comment-causes-uproar-on-social-media-atkmb-star-tenders-unconditional-apology-4792688.html|url-status=live}} Jhingan later formally apologised through his social media platforms.{{Cite web|date=2022-02-21|title=Top Indian footballer in sexism row for calling his teammates 'women'|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/top-indian-footballer-in-sexism-row-for-calling-his-teammates-women-b2019557.html|access-date=2022-02-21|website=The Independent|language=en|archive-date=21 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220221173050/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/top-indian-footballer-in-sexism-row-for-calling-his-teammates-women-b2019557.html|url-status=live}} Later on 21 April 2022, the Blasters brought their number 21 jersey out of retirement and gave it to Bijoy Varghese, while announcing his three-year contract extension with the club.{{Cite web |date=Apr 21, 2022 |title=Bijoy Varghese inherits Sandesh Jhingan's retired No. 21 shirt at Kerala Blasters {{!}} Football News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-super-league/top-stories/bijoy-varghese-inherits-sandesh-jhingans-retired-no-21-shirt-at-kerala-blasters/articleshow/90985679.cms |access-date=2022-04-21 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=21 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220421170415/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/indian-super-league/top-stories/bijoy-varghese-inherits-sandesh-jhingans-retired-no-21-shirt-at-kerala-blasters/articleshow/90985679.cms |url-status=live }}
Career statistics
=Club=
{{updated|25 April 2023}}{{soccerway|sandesh-jhingan/267433}}
| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;" | ||||||||
| rowspan="2"|Club
!rowspan="2"|Season !colspan="3"|League !colspan="2"|Cup !colspan="2"|Continental ! colspan="2" |Other ! colspan="2" |Total | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals
!Apps !Goals | Apps | Goals |
| rowspan="1" |United Sikkim
| rowspan="2" |I-League |21 | 2 | 2 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 23 | 2 | ||
| rowspan="1" |Mumbai
|11 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 11 | 0 | ||
| rowspan="7" |Kerala Blasters
|2014 | rowspan="6" |Indian Super League |14 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 14 | 0 | ||
| 2015
|10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 10 | 0 | ||
| 2016
|17 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 17 | 0 | ||
| 2017–18
|17 | 0 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 18 | 0 | ||
| 2018–19
|18 | 0 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 19 | 0 | ||
| 2019–20
|0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 0 | 0 | ||
| colspan="2" |Kerala Blasters total
!76 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0
! ! | 78 | 0 | |
| rowspan="1" |Sporting Goa (loan)
| rowspan="3" |I-League |11 | 1 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 11 | 1 | ||
| rowspan="1" |DSK Shivajians (loan)
|7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 7 | 0 | ||
| rowspan="1" |Bengaluru (loan)
|11 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 4{{efn|name=statsAFCC|Appearance(s) in AFC Cup}} | 1
| | | 20 | 2 | |
| ATK Mohun Bagan
|Indian Super League |22 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 22 | 0 | ||
| Šibenik
|Croatian First Football League |0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
| | | 0 | 0 | ||
| ATK Mohun Bagan
| rowspan="3" |Indian Super League |9 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2{{efn|name=statsAFCC}} | 0
| | | 11 | 0 | |
| Bengaluru
|22 | 0 | 5{{efn|name=SuperCup|Appearance(s) in Super Cup}} | 0 | colspan="2" |—
|5{{efn|name=DurandCup|Appearance(s) in Durand Cup}} |0 | 32 | 0 | ||
| Goa
|10 | 1 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2" |—
|5{{efn|name=DurandCup|Appearance(s) in Durand Cup}} |0 | 15 | 1 | ||
| colspan="3" |Career total
!200 | 5 | 14 | 0 | 6 | 1
! ! | 220 | 6 |
{{notelist}}
=International=
| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
!National team!!Year!!Apps!!Goals | ||
| rowspan="9" |India
|2015 | 7 | 0 |
| 2016 | 5 | 2 |
| 2017 | 9 | 2 |
| 2018 | 7 | 0 |
| 2019 | 8 | 0 |
| 2021 | 4 | 0 |
| 2022 | 7 | 0 |
| 2023 | 13 | 1 |
| 2024 | 4 | 0 |
| colspan="2" |Total | 64 | 5 |
|---|
==International goals==
:Scores and results list India's goal tally first
Honours
United Sikkim
Bengaluru
India
India U23
- South Asian Games Silver medal: 2016
Individual
- Indian Super League Emerging Player of the Season: 2014{{cite news|last1=Chaudhuri|first1=Arunava|title=AIFF Emerging Player of the Year 2014 Sandesh Jhingan: "Let my Coach decide on my position"|url=http://www.sportskeeda.com/football/sandesh-jhingan-let-my-coach-decide-on-my-position|access-date=10 October 2016|work=SportsKeeda|date=15 February 2015|archive-date=11 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011152856/http://www.sportskeeda.com/football/sandesh-jhingan-let-my-coach-decide-on-my-position|url-status=live}}
- AIFF Emerging Player of the Year: 2014
- AIFF Player of the Year: 2020–21{{Cite web|title=Sandesh named AIFF Men's Footballer of the Year, Suresh wins Emerging Player award|url=https://www.the-aiff.com/article/sandesh-named-aiff-mens-footballer-of-the-year-suresh-wins-emerging-player-award|access-date=2021-07-21|website=www.the-aiff.com|archive-date=10 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230310151646/http://the-aiff.com/article/sandesh-named-aiff-mens-footballer-of-the-year-suresh-wins-emerging-player-award|url-status=live}}
- Intercontinental Cup Hero of The Tournament Award: 2023{{Cite web |title=90ndstoppage/status/1670469050277969921|url=https://twitter.com/90ndstoppage/status/1670469050277969921?t=OENwiP0bvLzZUVIGXiCxRw&s=19 |access-date=2023-06-20 |website=Twitter |language=en}}
- Indian Super League Team of the Season: 2024–25{{cite web|title=The Ultimate XI of ISL 2024-25! 🔥
|url=https://www.instagram.com/p/DIgX3XiyRuN/ |website=Instagram}}
Awards and accolades
- 2020 − Arjuna Award, by the Government of India in recognition of his outstanding achievement in sports.{{Cite web|date=21 August 2020|title=Ishant Sharma, Sandesh Jhingan, Dutee Chand, Manu Bhaker chosen for Arjuna Award with 23 others: Full list of winners|url=https://www.mykhel.com/more-sports/ishant-sharma-sandesh-jhingan-dutee-chand-manu-bhaker-to-be-bestowed-with-arjuna-award-full-list-150023.html|access-date=19 December 2020|website=mykhel.com|language=en|archive-date=24 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824101442/https://www.mykhel.com/more-sports/ishant-sharma-sandesh-jhingan-dutee-chand-manu-bhaker-to-be-bestowed-with-arjuna-award-full-list-150023.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/national-sports-awards-aiff-lauds-award-winners/article32424053.ece/|title=National Sports Awards — AIFF lauds award winners|website=thehindu.com|publisher=The Hindu|agency=PTI|location=New Delhi|date=24 August 2020|access-date=4 January 2024|first1=|last1=|archive-date=27 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200827205618/https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/national-sports-awards-aiff-lauds-award-winners/article32424053.ece}}{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/sandesh-jhingan-sukhwinder-singh-national-awards-aiff-6565874/lite/|title=Sandesh Jhingan, Sukhwinder Singh lauded for their national awards by AIFF|website=indianexpress.com|publisher=The Indian Express|agency=PTI|location=New Delhi|date=22 August 2020|access-date=4 January 2024|first1=|last1=|archive-date=4 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104115354/https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/sandesh-jhingan-sukhwinder-singh-national-awards-aiff-6565874/}}
See also
Notes
{{notelist}}
{{reflist|group=lower-greek}}
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
- {{sports links}}
- [http://www.indiansuperleague.com/players/defender-10641-sandesh-jhingan-profile Sandesh Jhingan] on ISL website
{{s-start-collapsible|header={{S-sports}}}}
{{succession box
| title = Kerala Blasters FC
Captain
| before = Aaron Hughes
| after = Bartholomew Ogbeche
| years = 2017–2019
}}
{{s-end}}
{{FC Goa squad}}
{{Navboxes
| title = India squads
| bg = #2234F5
| fg = #FFFFFF
| bordercolor = #FF8000
| list =
{{India squad 2019 AFC Asian Cup}}
{{India squad 2023 AFC Asian Cup}}
}}
{{Indian Super League Emerging Player of the League}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Jhingan, Sandesh}}
Category:People from Chandigarh
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