The 2023/24 Indian Super League (ISL) has been a watershed season for Indian football, particularly highlighting the prowess of its homegrown players. This season, a blend of young talents and seasoned professionals showcased remarkable performances, leading their teams to crucial victories and setting new benchmarks for Indian football. Here are the top five most impactful Indian players from the ISL 2023/24 season.
5. Jay Gupta (FC Goa)
In his debut ISL season, Jay Gupta emerged as a standout player for FC Goa. After honing his skills in Portugal, Gupta seamlessly adapted to Indian football, significantly bolstering FC Goa’s left flank. His defensive acumen, combined with well-timed challenges, made him a reliable figure in the backline. Offensively, Gupta brought creativity and energy, timing his runs to perfection and contributing to both defense and attack.

Gupta’s statistics underscore his influence: playing all 25 matches, he helped secure nine clean sheets, averaged 44 passes per game, and won 131 duels and 41 tackles. Moreover, with five goal contributions (two goals and three assists), Gupta is now a strong contender for the left-back position in the national team.
4. Vikram Partap Singh (Mumbai City FC)
Vikram Partap Singh’s impressive rise continued at Mumbai City FC, where he had his best season yet under coach Petr Kratky. At just 22, Singh secured a regular spot in the starting XI, often starting over more established players. His dynamic forward runs, trickery, and knack for finding dangerous positions made him a constant threat to defenses.
Singh’s eight goals and four assists in the ISL were pivotal, including a memorable hat-trick in a 4-1 victory over NorthEast United. His stellar performance earned him the ISL Emerging Player of the Season award, capping off a triumphant campaign that saw Mumbai City lift the ISL trophy.
3. Brandon Fernandes (FC Goa)
Brandon Fernandes once again demonstrated why he is considered one of India’s most creative players. Despite missing several matches, Fernandes was a key playmaker for FC Goa, creating 60 goal-scoring opportunities, the joint-most in the league. His precision with set-pieces and open-play passes consistently troubled defenses.
Fernandes’ contribution included four assists and three goals, two of which came in the ISL playoffs, underscoring his ability to perform in crucial moments. His vision and passing accuracy continue to make him a vital asset for FC Goa and a mainstay in the Indian football scene.
2. Manvir Singh (Mohun Bagan)
Manvir Singh had a career-best season with Mohun Bagan, adapting superbly to the right wing-back role under Antonio Habas. Singh’s explosive pace and improved final product made him a formidable opponent on the right flank. His performances significantly improved in the latter half of the season, contributing to Mohun Bagan’s successful campaign.

Singh’s season statistics include four goals and seven assists, the highest for any Indian player in the league. His ability to deliver precise crosses and his knack for being in the right place at the right time were crucial in Mohun Bagan’s ISL shield victory.
1. Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC)
Lallianzuala Chhangte cemented his status as a leading figure in Indian football with a stellar season for Mumbai City. His decisive play in the final third was instrumental in his team’s success. Chhangte’s 10 goals and six assists in 25 appearances made him the top-scoring Indian player and the leader in overall goal contributions for the season.

Chhangte’s exceptional performance included a game-changing brace in the semi-final against FC Goa, highlighting his ability to deliver in high-stakes matches. His clever movement and clinical finishing have marked him as a worthy successor to Sunil Chhetri and a crucial player for Mumbai City’s ISL title win.
The 2023/24 ISL season has been a showcase of the rising talent and improved quality among Indian footballers. Players like Jay Gupta, Vikram Partap Singh, Brandon Fernandes, Manvir Singh, and Lallianzuala Chhangte have not only excelled individually but have also played pivotal roles in their teams’ successes. Their performances hint at a bright future for Indian football, with these stars leading the charge.