ISL: Youngest players to play in tournament history

A list featuring some of the youngest starlets to ever grace the ISL stage in league history.

The Indian Super League (ISL) has traditionally been a breeding ground for young footballers aiming to make their mark on Indian football. In recent years, several teenage prodigies have been given opportunities to showcase their talent on the big stage. 

Over the years, clubs like NorthEast United, Punjab FC, Kerala Blasters FC, and East Bengal FC have shown a willingness to give youngsters a chance. With this trend expected to continue and ISL becoming more competitive each passing season, the emergence of young talents will only help improve the overall quality of Indian football.

Here’s a look at the five youngest players to ever play in the ISL:  

5. Komal Thatal (17 Years, 132 Days) – ATK  

Kicking off the list and coming in at the fifth spot is Komal Thatal, who made his debut for ATK (now Mohun Bagan Super Giant) on January 28, 2018. At 17 years and 132 days old, Thatal was once considered one of the brightest young prospects in Indian football.

He was part of the India U-17 national team, which participated in the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup. He has since had limited opportunities to impress in the ISL and is currently playing for the Chennaiyin FC youth squad.

4. Korou Singh (17 Years, 125 Days) – Kerala Blasters FC

Next on the list is Korou Singh, who made his ISL debut for Kerala Blasters FC on April 6, 2024, at the age of 17 years and 125 days. A club known for producing and promoting young talents, Singh’s debut is another testament to their vision of unearthing fresh young talent.

With his speed and technical skills, Singh is expected to develop into a key player for the Blasters in the coming years. Korou has already made five goal contributions in 14 games this season. 

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3. Vishal Yadav (17 Years, 43 Days) – Punjab FC

Vishal Yadav became the third-youngest player in an ISL match on February 27, 2025. Representing Punjab FC at just 17 years and 43 days old, Yadav is yet another starlet who might be a player to watch out for Shers’ fans.

Debuting at such a young age, Yadav is a testament to Punjab FC’s trust in their young players. The youngster’s 10-minute cameo in the ISL highlights the growing trend of clubs investing in youth talent.

2. Guite Vanlalpeka (16 Years, 337 Days) – East Bengal FC

East Bengal FC is on this list with the second-youngest player in an ISL game in Guite Vanlalpeka. The teenager debuted on September 25, 2023, at just 16 years and 337 days old, making him one of the most exciting young prospects in the league.

With his agility, dribbling skills, and confidence on the ball, Vanlalpeka is seen as a future star for Indian football. His debut at a young age reflects East Bengal’s commitment to nurturing young talent.

1. Alfred Lalroutsang (16 Years, 239 Days) – NorthEast United FC 

The record for the youngest player to ever feature in the ISL is Alfred Lalroutsang, who debuted for NorthEast United FC on February 20, 2020. At just 16 years and 239 days old, the young midfielder’s inclusion in the team highlighted the club’s trust in their youth development system.

Although he was among the youngest debutants, he had a 9-minute cameo showcasing great composure and high potential. Setting a benchmark for other aspiring youngsters, Lalroutsang remains the youngest player to debut in the top division of Indian football.    

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