The Indian Super League (ISL), since its inception in 2014, has been driven by the presence of foreign players, whose impact has been significant, influencing the league's quality, popularity, and the development of domestic talent.

They have been the catalysts, the mentors, and the standard-bearers who have played a vital role in transforming the league and upgrading its competitiveness. These players have not only been top performers but have also been pillars of consistency.

Over the decade, there have been more than a couple of foreign players who have found a way to not only survive but thrive, to become the bedrock of the league. These are the veterans who, through sheer consistency and commitment, have etched their names into the league's history books.

With that said, we take a look at the foreigners with most appearances in the ISL who proved that greatness isn’t just about flair or silverware, but about longevity, consistency, and commitment to the cause.

Tiri - 154 games

Jose Luis Espinosa Arroyo, commonly known as Tiri, stands at the top of this list, a testament to his defensive prowess and consistency since the early days of the ISL. What sets Tiri apart isn’t just his positional discipline or aerial dominance, but his calm presence during challenging situations.

With his stints across ATK FC, Jamshedpur FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, and Mumbai City FC, the Spanish defender has evolved from a dependable centre-back into a seasoned leader. Over nine seasons in the ISL, Tiri’s longevity and ability to adapt to different systems and teammates make him a true legend of the league.

Ahmed Jahouh - 150 games

A master orchestrator, Ahmed Jahouh first lit up the ISL with FC Goa under Sergio Lobera and continued to shine at Mumbai City FC and Odisha FC. The Moroccan has redefined the No. 6 role in the ISL, dictating the tempo of the game with tactical intelligence.

With pinpoint passing, intelligent interceptions, and unmatched composure on the ball, Jahouh has been a revolutionary figure as a deep-lying playmaker. Across eight seasons in the ISL, Jahouh enjoyed a towering presence at the heart of the pitch, showcasing how a single player can influence an entire team's style of play.

Mourtada Fall - 140 games

Few defenders have imposed themselves in the ISL like Mourtada Fall. Known for his aerial dominance, goal-scoring ability from set pieces, and solid defensive positioning, Fall has been a nightmare for opposition attackers. He racked up a total of 25 goals, the most by any defender in the ISL.

With stints at FC Goa, Mumbai City FC, and Odisha FC, he quickly became one of the most feared defenders in the league. Across seven seasons in the ISL, Fall marshalled the backline for each team he played with his crunch tackles and leadership skills, cementing his legacy as one of the most consistent and impactful centre-backs the league has ever seen.

Javi Hernandez - 125 games

A versatile and dynamic Spanish midfielder, Javi Hernandez has been a creative spark for every club he's played for. With his sharp footballing brain and a wand of a left foot, Hernandez has dazzled fans with sublime goals, precise assists, and moments of genius that often turn matches on their head.

Since his ISL debut with ATK FC, followed by impressive spells at Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Odisha FC,
Bengaluru FC, and Jamshedpur FC, the Spaniard has lit up the league with his creativity and unique vision. From pulling the strings in the midfield to his ability to score from outside the box and his knack for set-piece deliveries, Hernandez has been a valuable asset for every team he played for.

Hugo Boumous - 124 games

At his best, Hugo Boumous is poetry in motion. From FC Goa to Mumbai City FC and
Mohun Bagan Super Giant to Odisha FC, Boumous has been a consistent match-winner and one of the most complete playmakers in the league.

Known for his dazzling dribbling, exceptional vision, and ability to create chances out of nothing, Boumous has been the X-factor in the final third. The French-Moroccan attacking midfielder recorded 35 goals and 39 assists across eight seasons in the ISL.