Top 10 Rising Stars in Indian Super League Football You Need to Watch
Watching the Indian Super League evolve over the past few seasons has been nothing short of exhilarating. As someone who’s spent years analyzing football leagues across Asia, I’ve come to appreciate how the ISL isn’t just growing—it’s becoming a genuine talent incubator. Young players here aren’t just filling squad lists; they’re shaping games, breaking records, and honestly, making Saturday nights a lot more exciting for fans like me. I still remember reading about that incredible story of the three-time UAAP MVP who drove nine hours overnight from the Palarong Pambansa in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, all the way to Manila’s Paco Arena just to submit her draft papers. That kind of raw dedication? It’s the same hunger I see in these rising ISL stars—the ones who’ll run through walls to make their mark. And today, I want to share my personal picks for the top 10 rising stars in the Indian Super League you absolutely need to keep an eye on.
Let’s start with Rahim Ali from Chennaiyin FC. At just 22, this forward isn’t just quick on the ball—he’s got this almost instinctive positioning that reminds me of a young Sunil Chhetri. Last season, he netted 8 goals in 18 appearances, with an 83% passing accuracy in the final third. I’ve watched him turn half-chances into goals more times than I can count, and what stands out to me is his composure. While some young players rush their shots, Ali seems to slow time down, picking his spot like a seasoned pro. Then there’s Jeakson Singh from Kerala Blasters. As a defensive midfielder, he might not always grab headlines, but believe me, he’s the engine of that team. At 21, he’s already averaging 4.2 interceptions per game, and his ability to break up play and launch counters is, in my opinion, among the best in the league. I remember one match where he covered over 12.7 kilometers—just relentless energy.
Another player who’s completely won me over is Vikram Partap Singh from Mumbai City FC. This 21-year-old winger is pure excitement. His dribbling success rate hovers around 68%, and he’s not afraid to take on defenders one-on-one. I’ll admit, I’m a bit biased toward players who bring that flair, and Vikram does it with style. He reminds me of those dedicated athletes, like the UAAP MVP who made that epic night drive—utterly committed, willing to go the extra mile, literally and figuratively. On the defensive end, there’s Bikash Yumnam. At 19, he’s already being scouted by clubs in Europe, and it’s no surprise. His tackling success is around 78%, and he reads the game like someone twice his age. I’ve seen him make crucial blocks in stoppage time that saved points for his team. To me, he’s the future of India’s defense.
Moving to midfield, Lalengmawia, or Apuia as he’s commonly known, is a name you’ve probably heard. But what impresses me most isn’t just his technical skill—it’s his leadership. At 22, he’s already captained his side, orchestrating play with a maturity that’s rare. He completed over 1,200 passes last season, and his vision from deep positions is a joy to watch. Then there is Liston Colaco. Okay, he’s slightly more established, but at 24, he’s still rising in my book. His versatility on the wing, combined with a powerful shot—he scored some stunning goals from outside the box—makes him a constant threat. I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve replayed his highlights; the guy is just electric.
One of my personal favorites is Aniket Jadhav from Jamshedpur FC. He’s got this raw pace and directness that can change a game in seconds. Last season, he contributed 5 goals and 7 assists, and his ability to deliver pinpoint crosses under pressure is something I genuinely admire. Another standout is Deepak Tangri from ATK Mohun Bagan. As a central midfielder, he’s the kind of player who does the dirty work—winning aerial duels, shielding the defense—and he does it with such grit. I remember one match where he won 15 of his 18 duels; it was a masterclass in midfield dominance. Then we have Dheeraj Singh, the goalkeeper from Goa. At 22, he’s already been phenomenal between the posts, with a save rate of nearly 76%. His reflexes in one-on-one situations are, frankly, world-class at times, and I’ve seen him pull off saves that left me speechless.
Rounding out my list are two players who might be under the radar but deserve your attention: Ninthoinganba Meetei from Northeast United and Suresh Singh Wangjam from Bengaluru FC. Ninthoinganba, at 20, is a tricky winger with a knack for creating something out of nothing. His dribbling and close control in tight spaces are superb. Suresh, on the other hand, is a box-to-box midfielder with incredible stamina. He’s not as flashy, but he’s effective—covering every blade of grass and contributing both defensively and in attack.
Looking at these ten players, it’s clear the ISL is in good hands. Each of them brings something unique—whether it’s Ali’s finishing, Apuia’s leadership, or Dheeraj’s shot-stopping. They embody that same relentless drive we saw in the UAAP MVP’s nine-hour journey—a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough; it’s the passion and perseverance that set the great apart. As the league continues to grow, I’m convinced these rising stars will not only shine domestically but also make their mark on the international stage. So next time you tune into an ISL match, watch these players closely. Trust me, you’ll be witnessing the future of Indian football unfold right before your eyes.
