Top five best youngsters in ISL in 2023

Among the five players, two hail from century old Kolkata giants East Bengal FC.

Launched in 2014, the Indian Super League (ISL) aimed to propagate football throughout India, serving as a catalyst for talent identification and refinement across diverse regions. Over the past decade, the ISL has played a pivotal role in fostering the development of Indian football. The league has been a breeding ground for emerging talents, with many earning coveted spots in the national team based on stellar performances.

The ongoing ISL 2023-24 season continues this tradition, showcasing a new wave of talent. These rising stars, hailing from various corners of the country, have assumed crucial roles in their respective teams, competing alongside globally renowned players. Their seamless integration and adaptability have garnered recognition, marking their presence at the pinnacle of Indian football. 

As these young players leave an indelible mark, let’s take a look on the top 5 young performers in ISL 2023:

Lalchungnunga (East Bengal FC)

Despite a challenging run for East Bengal in the 2022-23 and current ISL campaigns, a shining beacon emerges in the form of their young defender, Lalchungnunga. At just 22 years old, he has proven to be the defensive linchpin for the team, showcasing exceptional commitment and skill. 

Lalchungnunga stands out as the sole East Bengal player to amass an impressive 1682 Hero ISL minutes across 19 appearances in the previous season and is still standing strong . His consistency has earned him a regular starting spot under coach Carles Cuadrat, making him a source of pride for the struggling club amidst their broader campaign difficulties.

Lalengmawia Ralte (Mumbai City FC)

Apuia, commonly known as such, has justified the hype surrounding him by becoming indispensable to the Islanders’ current campaign. Possessing a captivating style of play, he forged a successful partnership with Ahmed Jahouh last season and seamlessly integrated with Yoell Van Nieff, this season, to establish the midfield’s core, dictating play for the defending champions.

Earning recognition by the conclusion of ISL 2022-23, Apuia continues to be a linchpin for Mumbai City FC, contributing both in attack and defence. He serves as a vital bridge, connecting various facets of the team’s performance and solidifying his crucial role in the squad.

Sachin Suresh (Kerala Blasters FC)

Making his debut against Bengaluru FC in the league, Sachin has undergone a well-documented ascent in his burgeoning career. The young shot-stopper has proven pivotal between the sticks for the Blasters, particularly in the absence of key defenders, contributing to his team’s current second-place standing in the table. 

Hailing from Kerala, the young goalkeeper has had a remarkable start to his debut season, amassing 23 saves and conceding ten goals in as many games. Sachin’s standout performances underscore his potential as a promising talent, marking him as a noteworthy figure in the evolving narrative of Indian football.

Naorem Mahesh Singh (East Bengal FC)

The East Bengal talisman, Mahesh, has played a pivotal role for The Red and Gold Brigade. Despite the team currently occupying the 7th position, Mahesh stands out as a bright spot, showcasing his impact. In 9 games played, he has contributed significantly with 2 goals and 2 assists, underscoring his influence on the team’s attacking prowess. 

Mahesh’s individual performance has stood out since the last season, where he registered seven assists in 19 matches. Most of these assists came during the concluding phase of ISL 2022-23, establishing him as the Indian player with the highest number of assists in the league. Additionally, Mahesh managed to score a couple of goals, further solidifying his impact on the field.

Parthib Gogoi (NorthEast United FC)

Parthib Gogoi has become the focal point of discussions in the ISL since 2023. His impressive tally of 3 goals this season, each a testament to his skill and finesse, has garnered attention. Not only that, Parthib was also the only ray of hope for The Highlanders last season. His ability to navigate through defenders, execute skillful cut-ins, and deliver powerful shots adds a delightful dimension to the game. Despite 

NorthEast United enduring a challenging season, the emergence of talents like Gogoi provides a silver lining, offering hope and a potential catalyst for the team’s success. As the young player continues to shine, his contributions become integral to NorthEast United’s aspirations, showcasing the impact and promise of emerging stars in the league.

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