Top 5 youngest coaches to take charge of an Indian Super League (ISL) game

NorthEast United FC features two coaches in this ISL list

The Indian Super League (ISL) is usually not known for featuring a lot of young coaches taking charge of an ISL match, but it does not mean that the league has not seen a young bunch of coaches leading their respective teams.

This list features a diverse mix of names, ranging from international figures to Indian names. Each story comes with its own context, some stepped in as short-term replacements for just a game or two, while others were entrusted with the responsibility over a longer stretch.

Surprisingly this list has a lot of connection to NorthEast United FC, both in a positive and negative way.

Now, let’s take a look at the top five youngest coaches to have taken charge of a match in the Indian Super League.

5. Nicolas Anelka (Mumbai City FC) – 36 years 206 days

The Frenchman stepped in as a player-manager in 2015 for Mumbai City FC, making him one of the youngest to lead a side in an ISL match at the time.

He was 36 years 206 days old when he took the job, bringing with him a wealth of experience from top European clubs, but very limited time on the sidelines as a coach.

His first match in charge came in the opening game of the 2015 ISL season against FC Pune City, which ended in a 3-1 defeat, a tough start that showed just how challenging the dual role could be.

Even so, Anelka’s stint remains a unique chapter in ISL history, with a high-profile name stepping into management while still lacing up his boots.

4. Gerard Nus (NorthEast United FC) – 35 years 296 days

Gerard Nus was just 35 when he got his chance with NorthEast United FC, making him one of the youngest coaches to take charge of an ISL match. It was a big step up, especially considering most of his earlier work had come as an assistant.

His first game in charge came against Mumbai City FC in the 2020–21 season opener, there were already signs of what he wanted from the team, compact, disciplined, and hard to break down.

What really made Nus stand out, though, was the way NorthEast United started playing under him. The team looked calmer on the ball, more structured, and there was a noticeable boost in confidence.

They weren’t just getting results anymore, they were actually playing good football.

3. Tomasz Tchorz (Kerala Blasters FC) – 32 years 239 days

Tomasz Tchorz comes in at number three. Having spent a long time within the Kerala Blasters youth setup, he knew the club inside out before getting his chance with the senior team.

That opportunity finally came in the 2024 season, when he stepped in as an interim coach at just 32 years of age. It wasn’t the easiest situation to walk into, but Tchorz handled it with a calm head, leaning on his familiarity with the players and the system.

Since then, he has moved on and is currently the head coach of SC Delhi, continuing his journey in Indian football after that brief but important stint with Kerala Blasters.

2. Noel Joseph (SC Delhi) – 27 years 256 days

Noel Joseph takes the second spot, becoming one of the youngest coaches in ISL history at just 27 years of age.

He took charge of SC Delhi in a match against NorthEast United FC during this ISL season which they surprisingly won very comfortably, stepping in in the absence of Tomasz Tchorz.

Even though it was just a one-off opportunity, it was a big moment for such a young coach to lead a side on the ISL touchline.

1. Amogh Adige (NorthEast United FC) – 25 years 240 days

Amogh Adige tops the list as the youngest coach to take charge of an ISL match. At just 25 years and 240 days, he recently stepped in for NorthEast United FC, having already been a part of their coaching setup.

He took charge of the side in a match against FC Goa, stepping in for head coach Juan Pedro Benali, who was suspended after receiving a red card against Mohun Bagan SG.

The result although did not go his way and the team looked completely clueless.

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