Top 10 Indian footballers in 2024

Lallianzuala Chhangte was conferred the AIFF Men’s Player of the Year award 2023-24.

The year 2024 may have been challenging for Indian Footballers and Indian football fans, particularly on the international stage, as the national team endured a winless run throughout the calendar year.

Their journey began with a disappointing AFC Asian Cup campaign, suffering defeats to Australia, Uzbekistan, and Syria, resulting in an early exit from the group stage. The struggles continued in subsequent fixtures against teams like Afghanistan, Mauritius, Vietnam, and Malaysia, leaving fans yearning for better performances.

However, at the domestic level, Indian football offered plenty of action and intrigue. The year saw a highly competitive landscape with no single team dominating the Indian football scene. Mohun Bagan Super Giant claimed the ISL Shield, while Mumbai City FC lifted the ISL Cup. Meanwhile, Mohammedan SC celebrated promotion to the Indian Super League after a stellar I-League-winning campaign, and NorthEast United FC triumphed in the prestigious Durand Cup.

As the year unfolded, several players stood out with their brilliance, despite the ups and downs in team performances. In this feature, we spotlight the best players of 2024, analyzing their contributions and celebrating their inclusion in this elite list of Indian football’s finest talents.

10. Anwar Ali

The year 2024 was undeniably a tumultuous one for Anwar Ali, whose controversial decision to terminate his contract with Mohun Bagan Supergiants and join their arch-rivals, East Bengal FC, sparked a significant uproar. This move not only drew the ire of Mariners’ loyalists but also embroiled him in a legal tussle with the AIFF’s Player Status Committee, adding layers of complexity to his career trajectory. Nevertheless, the Indian football star has made his presence felt at East Bengal FC, recording 11 appearances and contributing a solitary goal.

Born in Punjab, the 24-year-old centre-back’s footballing journey is nothing short of inspiring. He made his senior debut for the Indian national team in a challenging 2-1 defeat against Bahrain and has since earned four international caps in 2024. However, his story extends beyond the controversies and statistics. Anwar Ali’s resilience in the face of adversity is remarkable, having battled a rare heart condition that once threatened to derail his career. Despite the odds, he has emerged as one of India’s premier defenders, exemplifying determination and courage.

While controversies may cloud his reputation in certain circles, Anwar’s rise as a central figure in Indian football is a testament to his unwavering spirit and dedication to the sport. His ability to overcome personal and professional hurdles to don the national colours reflects his profound passion for the game and his indomitable will to make his country proud.

9. Jeakson Singh

Jeakson Singh stole the spotlight in 2024 by shattering records with his historic transfer to East Bengal, which came at an unprecedented fee of ₹3.2 crores—the highest ever in Indian football. This groundbreaking move underscored Jeakson’s value and potential as one of the nation’s most promising talents. Since joining the Red and Yellow Brigade, the 23-year-old Manipuri defensive midfielder has made ten appearances and contributed two goals, further solidifying his reputation as a pivotal figure in the team.

A product of the esteemed Minerva Punjab Youth Academy, the Indian football star honed his craft before joining Kerala Blasters, where he played an impressive 71 matches and scored two goals during his tenure. His journey from being a youth academy prodigy to an established name in Indian football is marked by his resilience and consistency. On the international stage, Jeakson has been a vital asset for the Blue Tigers, making the most of the limited opportunities to showcase his talent.

As East Bengal face turbulent times, Jeakson’s composure, vision, and ability to anchor the midfield will be instrumental in navigating the challenges ahead. With his sights set on elevating both club and national football, 2025 could mark a transformative year for Jeakson Singh, as he aims to etch his name among the legends of Indian football.

8. Vibin Mohanan

Vibin Mohanan, the 21-year-old dynamic Malayali midfielder from Thrissur, has been a revelation for Kerala Blasters in the 2023-2024 season. Showcasing his sublime form, he has made 21 appearances under Ivan Vukomanović’s stewardship, playing an instrumental role in helping the team secure a spot in the top six of the Indian Super League. Known for his composure, vision, and versatility, Vibin has firmly established himself as a key figure in Kerala’s midfield.

On the international stage, Vibin’s journey has been equally promising. After excelling with India’s youth teams, he received his senior call-up in May 2024, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. He made his debut for the Blue Tigers in a 1-1 draw against Malaysia, coming on as a substitute for Brandon Fernandes. His performance was met with praise, further cementing his status as a rising star in Indian football.

With his immense potential and growing reputation in Indian football, Vibin Mohanan has caught the attention of football pundits. As Kerala Blasters aim to build for the future, Vibin’s development will be crucial, and it will be fascinating to see how the club harnesses his talent to shape him into a star for both club and country.

7. Rahul Bheke

Rahul Bheke, the stalwart Mumbai-born centre-back, has long been a pillar of reliability and defensive fortitude in Indian football. When Sandesh Jhingan was sidelined due to a prolonged injury, Bheke seamlessly stepped into the role of India’s primary centre-back, showcasing his wealth of experience and leadership in the heart of defence. His remarkable composure and trustworthiness have made him one of the most dependable figures in Indian football.

At 34, Bheke’s journey has seen him carve a path through some of the most prominent clubs in the Indian footballing landscape. Having honed his craft at Bengaluru FC before his move to Mumbai City FC in 2021, Bheke played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s historic ISL Cup victory in the 2023-24 season, further enhancing his legacy. With nine appearances for the Indian football team in 2024, his sole goal came in a friendly against Malaysia, adding another chapter to his distinguished international career.

In a full-circle moment, Bheke returned to Bengaluru FC, the club where he achieved great success and forged countless memories. As he looks to add further accolades to his illustrious career, Rahul Bheke remains a cornerstone of Bengaluru FC’s defensive strength, and his experience is invaluable as the club strives for further glory.

6. Apuia Ralte

Apuia Ralte’s high-profile move from Mumbai City FC to Mohun Bagan has been a subject of much discussion, with some critics quick to label it as a pursuit of personal gain. However, this transfer marks a defining moment in Ralte’s career, one that underscores his aspirations to evolve as a footballer.

By joining one of the most storied clubs in Indian football, Ralte has positioned himself at the heart of a team currently sitting at the pinnacle of the Indian Super League standings. Mohun Bagan’s prominence in the top tiers of Asian club football undoubtedly played a significant role in the midfielder’s decision to make the switch, offering him a platform to further develop his craft on an international scale.

A product of the AIFF Elite Youth Academy, Apuia Ralte has represented the Indian national team with distinction, earning five caps to date. While he has yet to register a goal for the Indian football team, his performances at the club level, particularly for Mumbai City FC, have been nothing short of exemplary. His technical prowess, vision, and work ethic have made him one of the standout midfielders in Indian football, and his potential is immense.

At just 24 years old, Apuia is on the cusp of a defining chapter in his career. With his move to Mohun Bagan Supergiants, he is poised to help the club achieve domestic and continental success while continuing to represent India with pride. As 2025 beckons, Apuia’s ambition to leave an indelible mark on both his club and national team is palpable, and if his current trajectory continues, he is poised to become one of Indian football’s brightest stars.

5. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, the towering 6’6 goalkeeper from Mohali, remains a stalwart in Indian football despite occasional lapses that have led to criticism. Known for his commanding presence between the posts and exceptional shot-stopping ability, Sandhu’s achievements in both domestic and international football are a testament to his enduring class. He holds the distinction of being one of the few Indians to play for a top-division European club and the first to feature in the UEFA Europa League—a feat that underscores his pedigree.

This year, Gurpreet has made 10 appearances for the Indian national team, where his performances, though occasionally marred by minor errors, have largely been dependable. His ability to bounce back and deliver under pressure continues to solidify his reputation as one of the country’s finest goalkeepers. At the club level, Sandhu has been instrumental for Bengaluru FC, helping them secure 4 clean sheets in the opening matches of the new Indian Super League season. His contributions have made Bengaluru FC strong contenders for the title, with his sublime form inspiring confidence in the team’s defensive setup.

While clean sheets remain an area of concern, Sandhu’s resilience and knack for producing crucial saves make him indispensable for both club and country. As the season progresses, his performances will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping Bengaluru FC’s fortunes and bolstering India’s aspirations on the international stage.

4. Vikram Partap Singh

Vikram Pratap Singh has emerged as one of the brightest talents in Indian football, leaving an indelible mark on the Indian Super League 2023-24 season. The 22-year-old Chandigarh-born centre-forward, a product of the esteemed Minerva Punjab Youth Academy, has been a revelation for Mumbai City FC since joining the club in 2020. Throughout 77 appearances, Vikram has consistently demonstrated his attacking prowess, playing a pivotal role in Mumbai City FC’s triumphant ISL campaign.

Vikram’s exceptional performances were rightly recognized as he was awarded the Indian Super League Emerging Player of the League for the 2023-24 season, a testament to his stellar form and impact. Adding to his accolades, he was also named the Emerging Player of the Month for February and March 2024, cementing his reputation as one of Indian football’s most promising young stars.

On the international stage, while opportunities have been limited, Vikram has already represented India in four matches, making his debut in a high-stakes encounter against Australia in the AFC Asian Cup 2023. His presence in the national squad highlights his growing stature and potential to become a cornerstone for the Blue Tigers in the future.

3. Sunil Chhetri

Sunil Chhetri, the iconic captain, leader, and legend of Indian football, has had an extraordinary year in 2024. Despite bidding an emotional farewell to international football, Chhetri’s performances for Bengaluru FC have been nothing short of spectacular.

His retirement from the national team left an irreplaceable void, bringing tears to fans across the nation. However, Chhetri silenced critics who doubted his decision to continue playing club football by proving that age is merely a number. At 40 years old, he remains a force to be reckoned with, emerging as the second-highest goal scorer in the ongoing Indian Super League season.

Chhetri’s brilliance extends beyond his on-field contributions; he stands as an enduring inspiration for athletes across the globe, demonstrating that passion and perseverance can defy the limits of age. His tireless work ethic and unmatched footballing intelligence continue to make him a key figure for Bengaluru FC, as the club climbs the ISL points table in pursuit of restoring its golden days.

As Bengaluru FC strives for success, Chhetri’s leadership and goal-scoring prowess will undoubtedly play a pivotal role. While his departure from the national team marks the end of an era, his ongoing journey with Bengaluru FC showcases the enduring legacy of one of the greatest players Indian football has ever seen.

2. Vishal Kaith

Vishal Kaith, often regarded as one of the most underrated talents in Indian football, has undeniably had a stellar year. Despite limited opportunities to represent the Indian national team, Kaith has firmly established himself as a pivotal figure for Mohun Bagan. His commanding performances between the posts were instrumental in the club’s successful campaign, where they secured the ISL Shield and made their mark on the international stage in a top-tier European club competition.

The 2022-23 season saw Kaith earn the prestigious Golden Glove award, a testament to his shot-stopping brilliance and consistency. His ability to deliver clutch saves and maintain composure under pressure was crucial in Mohun Bagan’s defensive solidity, with numerous clean sheets highlighting his contributions. As a leader on the pitch, Kaith set an example with his work ethic and resilience, proving to be the backbone of the Supergiants’ squad.

While Kaith’s talent has often been overshadowed and underappreciated at the national level, fans across the country have begun to advocate for greater recognition of his abilities. If he continues this exceptional form, there is little doubt that he will cement his place as one of the most important goalkeepers for the Indian national team shortly. Vishal Kaith’s journey is a testament to perseverance, and his trajectory promises even greater achievements ahead.

1. Lallianzuala Chhangte

Lalrinzuala Chhangte has had a sensational 2024, emerging as a standout performer for both the Indian football team and his club, Mumbai City FC. The 27-year-old Mizoram-born winger has been an unstoppable force, showcasing his versatility, speed, and goal-scoring prowess. Since joining Mumbai City FC in 2022, Chhangte has become a linchpin for the team, playing a pivotal role in their triumph in the 2023-24 ISL Cup and driving them closer to retaining the ISL Shield this season.

For the Indian national team, Chhangte has been equally influential. In nine appearances this year, he delivered a game-changing performance, scoring the decisive goal against Qatar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers until that controversial goal ruled India’s possibilities of making it to the next round. His ability to rise in critical moments underscores his immense value to Indian football.

Chhangte’s consistency has been rightfully recognized, as he has won the AIFF Men’s Player of the Year award for two consecutive seasons and is a strong contender to claim the honor once again in 2024. In recognition of his leadership and contributions, Mumbai City FC has entrusted him with the captain’s armband, a testament to his influence both on and off the pitch.

With Sunil Chhetri’s retirement leaving a void in Indian football, Chhangte has stepped up as a beacon of hope for the future. His skill, determination, and leadership make him one of the most crucial players to lead the Indian national team in the years to come.

As both a winger and a potential striker, Chhangte is poised to carry forward the legacy of Indian football, embodying the spirit and aspirations of a nation hungry for success on the global stage.

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