Since its inception in 2014, the Indian Super League (ISL) has welcomed a diverse array of foreign talent. While experienced internationals have brought leadership and star power, the league has also become a launchpad for many young foreign players looking to carve a name for themselves early in their careers.

Read: Best Foreign XI in ISL history

With fresh energy, unique playing styles, and raw potential, these youngsters didn’t just add flair; they made an immediate impact alongside their Indian counterparts.

In this piece, we shine a light on some of the brightest young foreign prospects who chose the ISL as a stepping stone and went on to leave a lasting impression.

Gustavo Marmentini dos Santos

At just 20 years and 220 days, Gustavo Marmentini dos Santos remains the third-youngest foreigner to feature in the ISL. He arrived at Delhi Dynamos during the inaugural 2014 season and quickly established himself as one of the league’s standout young performers. Known for his flair, direct running, and ability to beat defenders with ease, Gustavo brought a much-needed spark to DDFC’s attack. With five goals, he finished as the joint second-highest goal scorer in the league’s first season.

Gustavo returned for the 2015 campaign, once again playing a vital creative role as Delhi Dynamos reached the playoffs for the first time, after narrowly missing out in the previous year. For a young player in a brand-new league, his fearless approach and natural flair left a lasting impression, cementing his status as one of the ISL’s earliest fan favourites.

Jonatan Lucca

A product of AS Roma’s youth system, Jonatan Lucca arrived in the ISL as a 21-year-old midfielder with FC Goa in 2015. Known for his smooth passing, tactical versatility, and ability to control the tempo of the game, Lucca became a key figure in Zico’s possession-heavy system. His composure under pressure and excellent range of distribution allowed FC Goa to dominate midfield battles and maintain fluidity in transitions.

Lucca’s performances in India reflected the ISL’s growing reputation as a nurturing ground for technically sound young talents. After his stint with FC Goa, he moved to FC Pune City, where he continued to showcase his adaptability across different tactical setups and roles in midfield.

Lucca was consistently effective. Over the course of three seasons, he made 50 ISL appearances, scoring five goals and providing seven assists, a remarkable milestone that made him the youngest foreigner to reach 50 appearances in the league’s history.

Bruno Pelissari

Bruno Pelissari was among the earliest young stars to make a mark in the ISL. He was just 21 when he joined Chennaiyin FC in 2014. Blessed with exceptional technique and vision, Pelissari quickly established himself as a dead-ball specialist and a creative force in midfield. He played a crucial role in Chennaiyin FC’s run to the playoffs in the inaugural season and was instrumental in their 2015 ISL Cup-winning campaign, scoring vital goals, including a memorable one in the final.

His link-up play with the likes of Steven Mendoza and Jeje Lalpekhlua added flair and unpredictability to the Marina Machans’ attack. After two impactful seasons with CFC, Pelissari joined Delhi Dynamos in 2016, where he continued to play a dynamic role in the attacking third. His contributions helped the side secure a second consecutive playoff qualification, before eventually bowing out to Kerala Blasters FC in the semi-finals.

Steven Mendoza

No list of impactful young foreigners in ISL is complete without Steven Mendoza. At just 22, the Colombian winger took the league by storm during his time with Chennaiyin FC between 2014 and 2015. Known for his blistering pace and sharp finishing, Mendoza was a constant menace to opposition defenders. He won the Golden Boot in the 2015 season, scoring 13 goals and playing a decisive role in Chennaiyin FC’s dramatic ISL Cup win. His unforgettable injury-time winner in the final remains one of the most iconic moments in ISL history.

Also Read: Best last-minute goals in ISL history

Across two seasons, Mendoza recorded 20 goal involvements, netting 17 goals in just 25 appearances, a remarkable return for a young forward. His standout performances in India caught global attention and laid the foundation for a brighter future. The forward was later called up to the Colombian national team.

Hugo Boumous

Hugo Boumous is one of the most successful foreign players to have graced the ISL, and he still has plenty left in the tank. He was just 22 and relatively unknown when he made his debut for FC Goa, but it didn’t take long for him to establish himself as a midfield maestro under Sergio Lobera’s free-flowing system. With immaculate close control and exceptional vision, Boumous brought a touch of European elegance to the Indian football scene.

His standout campaign came in 2019–20, when he registered 11 assists and 9 goals in just 15 appearances, winning the ISL Golden Ball and leading FC Goa to the League Winners’ Shield. Boumous then joined Mumbai City FC, where he played a key role in helping the Islanders complete a historic double, winning both the ISL Shield and the ISL Cup in the 2020–21 season.

He continued his success with Mohun Bagan Super Giant and is now showcasing his creative flair at Odisha FC. Still only 29, Boumous remains one of the most influential playmakers in the league. With over 270 chances created, he stands second only to Brandon Fernandes in the all-time ISL chance creation charts—a testament to his consistency and class.