Top 10 Indian players to watch in I-League 2024-25

A list of Indian footballers who are going to play important roles for their teams.

The 2024-25 I-League season kicks off on Friday with fans of all the 12 teams looking ahead to all the games on offer. The start of the season gives the Indian players a golden opportunity to set the tone and prepare themselves for a challenging season.

Fans are eagerly going to be awaiting the performances of some of the best up-and-coming Indian talents. The names on this list of players include some of the best talents that I-League clubs can offer in the 2024-2025 season.

Here’s a closer look at the top 10 players to watch out for this season: 

10. Rosenberg Gabriel (Sreenidi Deccan FC)

The Maharashtrian winger gave a good account of himself and displayed a keen eye for goal for Sreenidi last season. Rosenberg scored 4 goals last season in 19 appearances while playing off the left for the club.

Gabriel showed his true qualities again during the club’s game against Shillong Lajong FC. The winger opened the scoring for Sreenidi and secured a valuable point in the 63rd minute in a hardly fought 2-2 draw. Sreenidi Deccan will be hoping Gabriel once again finds his goal-scoring instincts ahead of this season. 

9. Jaspreet Singh (Sreenidhi Deccan FC) 

While being on loan at Namdhari FC last season, Jaspreet proved himself as a commanding presence in goal. While he made only 3 appearances last season for Namdhari, the Punjab native’s shot-stopping ability and control of aerial balls was on full display.

Jaspreet returns to a Sreenidi squad this season with plenty of competition and a golden opportunity for the starting spot. With the departure of Albino Gomes to Jamshedpur FC in the ISL, Jaspreet will be keen to impress on his return.

8. Gwgwmsar Gayary (Delhi FC) 

The young Assamese attacker has been a young player to keep a close eye on for Delhi FC. The 19-year-old impressed as a youth player in the Reliance Foundation Developmental League scoring 2 goals in 4 appearances. His good performances also led to his promotion to the Delhi FC first team and he made 9 I-League appearances scoring a goal in the final game of the 2023-2024 season.

His relentless energy and scoring ability will be a huge asset to his club. His tactical awareness and pace will play a significant role in Delhi FC’s fortunes in the I-League this season. 

7. Ariston Costa (Dempo SC)

Hailing from Goa, Ariston is a versatile attacking midfielder who can operate across the front line. His pace and dribbling skills make him a constant threat to opposition defenses. The newly promoted Dempo will be hoping Costa plays a big role in the upcoming campaign. 

While he is not well known for his scoring prowess, Costa will play a vital role in the creative department. His influence in the attacking phase can open up a lot of things for Dempo in the 2024-2025 season.

6. Ashray Bhardwaj (Inter Kashi)

A player recognized as a solid defender, Ashray is known for his aerial ability and physicality. The 23-year-old centre-back made 4 appearances last season for Sudeva Delhi. The Chandigarh native is known for his composure under pressure and leadership at the back.

Fans got a small glimpse of Bhardwaj during his 3 appearances in the Durand Cup, where the club showed faith in him by putting him in the starting lineup. Despite being a new arrival, Ashray has quickly settled in and will be a key player at the heart of Inter Kashi’s defense. 

5. Phrangki Buam (Shillong Lajong FC)

An attacking midfielder full of flair, Phrangki is renowned for his long-range shooting and quick feet. After signing for Shillong Lajong FC in 2023, Buam has quickly shown his standout abilities. The 23-year-old player will be looking to lead his team with impactful performances.

He also made 5 appearances in the Durand Cup for Shillong Lajong FC and will be starting at the heart of all attacking moves. Buam also has shown versatility to be a threat on either wing and can fill in for his team if and when required. He will be another important player for his team this season.

ALSO READ: Top 10 youngsters to watch in I-League 2024-25

4. Ashish Jha (SC Bengaluru)

The 25-year-old Indian forward will be part of the SC Bengaluru squad in this upcoming season. While playing a bit part role as a squad player last season, Jha only made 5 appearances as a Bengaluru FC’s reserves. He scored a single goal in three Durand Cup appearances last season and will be keen to reignite his footballing career.

The player will be a significant addition to the club this season. Having a player with ISL experience will be a good standard for younger members of the squad. Whether or not he can supply the numbers, Jha will be a player to watch for SC Bengaluru this season. 

Yet again, Homecoming season! Welcome back to the squad Ashish jha 🔥#SportingClubBengaluru #SCB #GoldenTigers #Ileague #indianfootball pic.twitter.com/NFzhJB62RP

— Sporting Club Bengaluru (@SCBengaluru) November 8, 2024

3. Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia (Aizawl FC)

The 24-year-old forward had one of the most impressive seasons in recent memory. The Mizo forward recorded 15 goals in 20 appearances for Aizawl FC last season. Lalbiaknia was a nightmare for defenders last season and his clinical finishing was on display last season.

A game that highlighted the Aizawl FC forward’s abilities would be the 3-1 win against NEROCA FC. The Mizo forward recorded his first hat-trick for the season and was a class above other players on the field. Aizawl FC will be hoping for another scintillating season from Lalbiaknia as they look to go all the way this season. 

2. Kingslee Fernandes (Churchill Brothers SC)

Fernandes is a player that Churchill Brothers SC fans will be looking to see ahead of the upcoming season. The 26-year-old defensive midfielder played a supporting role for Punjab FC in the ISL last season. While making 7 league appearances, Fernandes was not able to give a proper account of himself with Punjab last season.

However, his move to Churchill Brothers SC in the summer highlights his determination to make a name for himself. His ability to break up counter-attacks and support his teammates in the middle of the park will be a valuable asset. The club will be hoping that Fernandes reinforces a midfield that severely lacks leadership and defensive stability.

1. Emil Benny (Gokulam Kerala FC) 

The 24-year-old talented midfielder is the newest arrival on the books for Gokulam Kerala FC with ISL experience. Known for his creativity and composure on the ball, Emil’s ability to dictate play from the midfield will be crucial for his team’s title aspirations. 

As part of Jamshedpur FC last season, he made 8 appearances off the bench and will be looking to make a mark with Gokulam this season. A player hungry to prove his doubters, Benny could be the ideal player for the club looking to go all the way this season.

The players in this list represent the present of Indian football and are expected to light up the 2024-25 I-League season. With a keen eye and focus on their performances, the I-League will surely be a league that excites fans in stadiums and spectators at home alike.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.