ISL 2024-25: List of ISL clubs who gave most minutes to India U-23 Players

A list featuring some of the clubs who have accelerated the progression of young talent in the ISL this season.

The 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) season has increasingly emphasised young domestic talent, with some clubs providing significant game time to Indian U-23 players. While developing young players is crucial for the future of Indian football, some clubs have excelled in giving their rising stars valuable experience on the pitch.  

Gaining experience from a very young age can aid the progression of promising youngsters who can be future stars for the Indian national football team. These clubs have taken the extra step this season to ensure their young talent gets a chance to shine on the field.

Let us look closer at the top five teams that have given the most minutes to Indian U-23 players in the ongoing ISL season:  

5. East Bengal FC– 5,432 minutes

The Torchbearers kickstart this list at number five, with their Indian U-23 players getting 5,432 minutes of playtime during the ongoing season. While this number is slightly lower than the other teams on this list, East Bengal has still made a significant effort to integrate young players into their matchday squad.

Players like Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Nikhil Poojary have previously broken through with the club. With a rich history and a massive fan following, East Bengal FC continues to develop young talents like PV Vishnu and David Lalhlansanga, who could play a crucial role in shaping their future.

4. Chennaiyin FC – 6,225 minutes  

The Marina Machans have given its U-23 players 6,225 minutes of playing time this season, demonstrating the club’s willingness to invest in the next generation of Indian footballers. While the club has a mix of experienced domestic and international players, they have ensured that young Indian prospects also get a fair share of action.

Chennaiyin also has a history of promoting young players like Lalliansanga Renthlei and Samik Mitra, who continue to forge their professional careers. With players like Lalrinliana Hnamte and Irfan Yadwad within their ranks, coach Owen Coyle has a promising young core he can rely on in the future.   

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3. Hyderabad FC- 6,688 minutes

Breaking into the top three, the Nizams have continued their faith in promoting young players, with their U-23 talents featuring 6,688 minutes during this regular season. The club has built a reputation for trusting young Indian footballers and providing them crucial game time in the ISL.

Blending youth with experience has helped them remain competitive since entering the league; players like Ramhlunchhunga and Mohammed Rafi have once again repaid their faith in the coaching staff.

2. Kerala Blasters FC – 7,072 minutes  

The Tuskers are another club that has prioritized young Indian players, with their U-23 players clocking 7,072 minutes on the field this season. Kerala has always been known for its passionate fan base and focus on developing homegrown talent.

Over the years, the Blasters have produced young talent like Alex Saji and Emil Benny, who continue to prove their quality for their respective clubs. This season, their young stars like Korou Singh and Vibin Mohanan have been instrumental in key matches, proving their potential on the big stage.  

1. Punjab FC – 7,100 minutes

Under the stewardship of head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis, the Shers have emerged as the best team in nurturing young Indian talent, with 7,100 minutes played by their U-23 players. The club, which has consistently focused on developing young footballers, has provided its emerging stars with ample opportunities in the first team.

The club has shown a commitment that reflects Punjab FC’s long-term vision of building a squad with a strong core of Indian talent. With players like Muhammad Suhail F and Tekcham Abhishek Singh already stepping up in crucial roles for their sides, the Shers have a bright future ahead.   

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