ISL 2026-27: Qatar-born Indian youngster Aashir Salim joins Odisha FC in deal until 2028

Born in Doha, Qatar, Aashir developed through the youth system of Al-Sailiya SC, progressing through the club’s age-group and Olympic setup. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Odisha FC has signed Qatar-born Indian-origin youngster Aashir Salim ahead of the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) season, the club announced on Saturday.

The 20-year-old joins the club on a two-year deal, and will boost the midfield of the Juggernauts, who already have Giorgi Aburjania, Puitea, Hitesh Sharma and K. Lalrinfela among its options in the 2026-27 season.

Born in Doha, Qatar, Aashir developed through the youth system of Al-Sailiya SC, progressing through the club’s age-group and Olympic setup. He went on to gain senior experience with the Qatari side before making the move to India.

“I’m very happy to join Odisha FC, and I’m really looking forward to this new chapter in my career. This will be my first experience in the Indian Super League, so it is a very exciting opportunity for me. I’m eager to learn, work hard and give my best for the team and the fans,” Aashir said.

Odisha FC, which won the Super Cup in the 2023 and reached its final the next year, finished fourth from bottom last season in the regular campaign and is looking for an overhaul under former Hyderabad FC coach T.G. Purushottam.

The team has brought in Aburjania, Nandhasekar, Nihal Sudeesh and goalkeeper Sachin Suresh before the 2026-27 season, with Aashir adding on to the list.