As the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season reaches its climax, with six teams securing their place in the playoffs, one crucial question emerges—how well did clubs nurture young talent? The development of U-23 players is pivotal for Indian football’s future, and while some teams heavily invested in youth, others leaned towards experience to maintain competitive consistency.
Here’s a deep dive into which teams provided the most minutes to U-23 players and how their approach impacted their league campaign:
1. Kerala Blasters – 7,621 minutes (8th place, 29 points)
Despite missing out on the playoffs, Kerala Blasters emerged as the undisputed leaders in youth development this season. Their 7,621 minutes dedicated to U-23 players reflect a long-term vision of grooming young footballers. The likes of Mohammed Aimen, Azhar, Vibin Mohanan, and rising sensation Kourou Singh were standout performers, offering glimpses of a promising future despite the team’s struggles.
2. Punjab FC – 7,522 minutes (10th place, 28 points)
Punjab FC closely followed Kerala Blasters in youth integration, dedicating 7,522 minutes to U-23 players. Despite finishing in 10th place, their unwavering trust in young talents such as Pramveer Singh, Abhishek Singh, and Muhammad Suhai signifies a foundation being laid for long-term success. Their commitment to youth could prove instrumental in shaping Indian football’s next generation.
3. Hyderabad FC – 6,810 minutes (12th place, 18 points)
Hyderabad FC endured a torrid season, finishing at the bottom of the table, but their focus on youth remained undeterred. With 6,810 minutes handed to U-23 players, they continued their tradition of fostering young talent, a philosophy that might reap rewards in the coming years.
4. Chennaiyin FC – 6,225 minutes (11th place, 27 points)
Another team that struggled in the standings yet remained committed to youth development was Chennaiyin FC. Their 6,225 minutes for U-23 players indicate a long-term strategy to build a competitive squad for the future.
5. East Bengal – 5,432 minutes (9th place, 28 points)
The Kolkata giants finished ninth but allocated 5,432 minutes to young talents, reflecting a significant investment in youth despite missing out on the playoffs.
6. FC Goa – 4,828 minutes (2nd place, 48 points, Playoffs Qualified)
Among the top-performing teams, FC Goa stood out for their impressive balance between youth integration and results. Finishing second and securing a playoff spot while dedicating 4,828 minutes to U-23 players demonstrates a well-executed strategy of blending emerging stars with experienced campaigners.
7. Mohammedan SC – 4,400 minutes (13th place, 13 points)
A difficult debut season for Mohammedan SC saw them finish at the bottom, but their 4,400 minutes to U-23 players highlight their commitment to building a young core for future campaigns.
8. Odisha FC – 3,552 minutes (7th place, 33 points)
Odisha FC narrowly missed the playoffs but ensured 3,552 minutes for their U-23 talents, ensuring valuable match experience for future prospects.
9. Mumbai City FC – 3,175 minutes (6th place, 36 points, Playoffs Qualified)
A playoff-bound team, Mumbai City FC managed to incorporate 3,175 minutes for young players while maintaining their signature attacking football.
10. NorthEast United FC – 2,992 minutes (4th place, 38 points, Playoffs Qualified)
A club historically associated with nurturing young talent, NorthEast United FC ensured 2,992 minutes for U-23 players while securing an impressive fourth-place finish and a playoff berth.
11. Jamshedpur FC – 2,736 minutes (5th place, 38 points, Playoffs Qualified)
Jamshedpur FC balanced competitive success and youth development, giving 2,736 minutes to U-23 players while securing a playoff spot.
12. Bengaluru FC – 2,282 minutes (3rd place, 38 points, Playoffs Qualified)
A strong third-place finish came at the cost of limited youth participation, with only 2,282 minutes allotted to U-23 players.
13. Mohun Bagan SG – 1,854 minutes (1st place, 56 points, League Shield Winners, Playoffs Qualified)
The League Shield winners and table-toppers Mohun Bagan SG fielded the least number of U-23 minutes among all teams, prioritizing experienced players to maintain dominance.
The Balance Between Youth Development and Results
The ISL 2024-25 season once again underscored the ongoing dilemma faced by Indian clubs—prioritizing immediate success or focusing on long-term player development. While teams like Kerala Blasters and Punjab FC embraced a youth-first approach, others like Mohun Bagan SG and Bengaluru FC relied on seasoned players to ensure competitive stability.
However, the ideal model seems to be a blend of both strategies, as seen with FC Goa and Mumbai City FC, who integrated young players while also securing top-tier finishes. As Indian football continues its evolution, striking the right balance between youth investment and on-field success will remain the key to sustainable progress.