The Indian Super League (ISL) has been a catalyst for change in Indian football since its inception. While the league has seen renowned international stars and seasoned Indian professionals grace its pitches, it is perhaps the league’s role in developing young, homegrown talent that has made the most lasting impact.

Over the years, the ISL has provided a stage for emerging players to showcase their skills, compete at a higher level and grow under the guidance of experienced coaches and teammates. The 2024–25 season has once again reinforced the ISL’s reputation as a breeding ground for the next generation of Indian footballers. Across clubs and positions, a number of youngsters stepped up with composed, mature performances with many of them helping their teams over the course of a demanding campaign.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most exciting young players from the 2024-25 season.

Dippendu Biswas (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

A breakthrough season for Dippendu Biswas saw him play a key role in Mohun Bagan Super Giant's triumphant campaign. In a team filled with high expectations and experienced names, Biswas showcased his quality as he recorded a goal and two assists from just under 1,000 minutes of action. His adaptability and willingness to contribute in both defence made him a vital member of the MBSG squad.

Brison Fernandes (FC Goa)

Few players matched the consistency and flair that Brison Fernandes brought to the pitch this season. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder was awarded the Emerging Player of the Season and rightly so. With seven goals and two assists in 24 appearances, Fernandes became the second-highest Indian goalscorer this season behind Sunil Chhetri, a remarkable feat. He showed his ability to influence games from midfield and became a key player under Manolo Marquez.

Abhishek Singh (Punjab FC)

Punjab FC’s Abhishek Singh continued his steady rise this season, with performances that earned him a national team call-up. The 20-year-old fullback was a vital presence on the right flank, showcasing his pace, technical quality, and tactical discipline.

Korou Singh (Kerala Blasters FC)

At just 18, Korou Singh showed exceptional promise for Kerala Blasters FC. Comfortable both in possession and without the ball, Singh contributed two goals and four assists, leading the chart for Indian goal involvements at KBFC. His pace, energy and movement in the final third added a dynamic edge to the Blasters’ attack.

Vinith Venkatesh (Bengaluru FC)

At just 19, Vinith Venkatesh offered a glimpse of his immense potential with a breakthrough season in the Bengaluru FC midfield. Across 19 appearances, the young midfielder contributed a goal and two assists in crucial phases of the campaign.

Venkatesh impressed not just with his attacking output, but also with his work rate and calmness on the ball. Whether it was linking play between the lines or recovering possession, the teenager brought energy to the Blues’ midfield setup. Having made his way to the first team through BFC’s youth system, he emerged as one of the most promising young prospects of the season.

Nathan Rodrigues (Mumbai City FC)

Mumbai City FC found a rising star in Nathan Rodrigues. The young fullback made a strong impression in his breakthrough campaign, finishing with three clean sheets, three goals, and one assist. Rodrigues brought balance to the flank with his forward runs and defensive awareness, often playing key roles in transition phases. His contributions were instrumental in helping the Islanders become one of the meanest defences in the league.

David Lalhansanga (East Bengal FC)

In his first season with East Bengal FC, forward David Lalhansanga made a telling impact. Despite limited minutes, he emerged as the club’s top scorer with four goals from just 568 minutes of play. His sharp finishing, movement in the box and link-up play highlighted his attacking intelligence. Lalhansanga proved to be a versatile and effective option in the final third even as East Bengal FC battled injuries throughout the season.

Ramhlunchhunga (Hyderabad FC)

A name that gained prominence this season was that of forward Ramhlunchhunga. The winger played 23 matches for Hyderabad FC, contributing two goals and three assists, finishing as the team’s joint-highest goal contributor. He regularly found ways to impact the attacking phase for his team. A product of a club known for nurturing youth, Ramhlunchhunga has taken key steps forward in his development.

Hrithik Tiwari (FC Goa)

After patiently waiting for his opportunity, goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari made the most of his chances this season. Stepping in for the injured Laxmikant Kattimani, the young shot-stopper kept seven clean sheets in 19 appearances and made 52 crucial saves, including a penalty stop. His assured performances between the posts were vital in FC Goa’s journey to the semi-finals, with the club finishing with the second-best defensive record in the league stage.

Macarton Louis Nickson (NorthEast United FC)

Macarton Nickson made his mark in the NorthEast United FC’s squad with high-energy displays and key contributions across the pitch. The midfielder scored two goals and registered an assist, offering tremendous work rate in the final third. Having made his ISL debut last season, Nickson built on that experience with increased confidence this season, helping the Highlanders reach the playoffs.

Nikhil Barla (Jamshedpur FC)

Young right-back Nikhil Barla continued to evolve under Khalid Jamil’s guidance at Jamshedpur FC. A regular starter this season, Barla not only defended his flank with commitment but also made notable forward runs. He scored his first ISL goal and provided an assist, adding to his all-round performance. His willingness to step up and contribute in both halves of the pitch made him an essential part of the squad.