Attackers may have grabbed the headlines but this season’s real stars were the ones shutting them down.

From rock-solid performances at the back to crucial goal contributions, the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024–25 season saw defenders step up in a big way.

Whether it was seasoned veterans leading with authority or fresh faces making a name for themselves, these players proved that defending is about more than just keeping clean sheets.

With that, here’s a look at the ISL 2024–25 season’s top defensive titans, in no particular order.

Subhasish Bose (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Captain fantastic. Subhasish Bose was everything Mohun Bagan Super Giant needed and more. Switching between full-back and center-back like it was no big deal, he led from the front. His six goals made him the club’s third-highest scorer this season, incredible stats for a defender, and his leadership helped MBSG script history by becoming just the second ISL team to win the double. Add to that 13 clean sheets. He also won the AIFF Player of the Year award, after a trophy-laden season.

Alberto Rodriguez (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Similar to Bose, Alberto Rodriguez was also the rock-solid anchor at the back. His partnership with Tom Aldred was crucial, but Rodriguez stood out more with his calm presence and clutch moments. He played a massive role in MBSG’s Shield and ISL Cup victories, helping them to 14 clean sheets and even getting on the scoresheet five times himself.

Sandesh Jhingan (FC Goa)

Back from injury and back to his best, Sandesh Jhingan made sure FC Goa stayed solid. His return sparked a 12-match unbeaten run as the Gaurs finished second with 48 points. Seven clean sheets, a goal, and an undeniable impact whenever he was on the pitch. With Jhingan marshalling the backline, FC Goa looked like genuine contenders again.

Rahul Bheke (Bengaluru FC)

The prodigal son returned and how. Rahul Bheke’s comeback season with Bengaluru FC saw him take control of the defence and guide the team to their first final in two years. Playing as a centre-back, he led the charge with 10 clean sheets and three goals to his name. A reliable, vocal presence in the backline, Bheke reminded everyone why he’s one of India’s finest.

Naorem Roshan Singh (Bengaluru FC)

Roshan Singh had a season to remember under Gerard Zaragoza, featuring in a whopping 28 matches. Whether he was defending deep or charging forward, he consistently made things happen on the left flank.

He was involved in nine clean sheets, scored a goal, and provided three assists. What made him truly valuable was his dual-threat capability, posing a threat from both open play and set pieces. Whether whipping in crosses or delivering key passes, he always kept the opposition guessing.

Stephen Eze (Jamshedpur FC)

Jamshedpur FC’s defense may have been leaky at times, having conceded 43 goals during the league stage but Stephen Eze’s return still made a difference. He was a massive part of the club reaching the playoffs after three seasons, keeping five clean sheets and contributing three goals and an assist, including a jaw-dropping solo goal against MBSG. Making an impact at both ends of the pitch, Eze brought both flair and force.

Tiri (Mumbai City FC)

Tiri, a seasoned ISL campaigner, continued to be a steady hand for Mumbai City FC. His partnership with Mehtab Singh was crucial in the Islanders’ journey to the playoffs, and his experience helped them concede just 28 goals in the league stage, the third-best record. He added a goal and two assists for good measure, proving he still has a few tricks up his sleeve.

Buanthanglun Samte (NorthEast United FC)

Who says defenders can't be playmakers? Samte was one of the influential full-backs of the season. Though listed as a defender, he was a key creative spark for a side that scored the second-most goals in the league stage. With three assists and the most chances created by any Indian player in the NEUFC squad, he played a big role in their return to the playoffs.

Mourtada Fall (Odisha FC)

Fall may be 6’4”, but his impact for Odisha FC was even bigger. The towering defender was everywhere, scoring five goals to finish as the team’s joint-second highest scorer and making over 100 duels and clearances each. While Odisha FC missed the playoffs by a whisker, Fall’s individual performances were anything but forgettable. Just three clean sheets to his name, but the Senegalese was a one-man wall.

Boris Singh (FC Goa)

Natural winger turned full-back, Boris Singh took on the challenge and made it his own. Tasked with defending and darting forward, he helped FC Goa keep seven clean sheets while grabbing a goal and an assist. His versatility and energy were key to FC Goa’s success despite the Gaurs not winning anything. And the reward? A national team debut. Not bad for someone playing out of position.