Midfielders are often regarded as the heartbeat and engine of a football team, playing a vital role on both ends of the pitch. Whether it’s feeding the forward line with crucial assists or shielding their own defensive line, midfielders’ roles are paramount and diverse, given the team’s tactical approach.

The anchors at the centre of the pitch dictate the tempo and rhythm of the game with their versatility, accurate passing, and unique vision. The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season has also witnessed how its decorated midfielders are shaping the fortunes of their respective teams and playing an integral part, often a determining factor in the outcome of a game.

Vote for your favourite midfielders -> Here

As Phase 1 of the Fans’ Team of the Season voting drew to a close on Wednesday, now it’s time to set up the midfield and cast your vote for the three midfielders who will feature in the 4-3-3 formation.

Phase 2 of the voting began on May 8, fans can cast their votes for the three midfielders who will anchor the 4-3-3 formation — central midfielder, right central midfielder, and left central midfielder.

Voting for midfielders will remain open until May 10.

Let’s take a look at the standout midfielders nominated for this season’s Fans’ Team of the Season.

Centre Midfielders

Nikhil Prabhu (Punjab FC)

Nikhil Prabhu has been Punjab FC’s unsung hero in midfield with his sharp game reading, tactical awareness, and smart anticipation skills. The Shers’ midfield commander won 110 duels, completed 84 recoveries, and attempted 56 interceptions and 37 clearances.

Yoëll van Nieff (Mumbai City FC)

Yoëll van Nieff won possession back a league-high 156 times this season. He averaged 9.7 final third entries per game in the 2024-25 season, the fourth-best by any outfield player (min. 2 games played). Moreover, he became just the second player to make 200+ final third entries in multiple seasons in the league for Mumbai City FC (224 in 2023-24), alongside Ahmed Jahouh (3 times).

Mohammed Ali Bemammer (NorthEast United FC)

Mohammed Ali Bemammer played a key role in NorthEast United FC’s playoff qualification this year. The Moroccan midfielder averaged 39 passes per game, created 23 chances, won 97 duels, and completed 137 recoveries, playing an all-around role in the Highlanders’ midfield.

Lalengmawia Ralte (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Lalengmawia Ralte, commonly known as Apuia, has been MBSG’s powerhouse in the heart of the pitch. The Mizo footballer has been outstanding in thwarting opponents’ attacking moves with his sheer anticipation while also participating in the Mariners’ transition game. He averaged 46 passes per game, won 118 duels, and completed 133 recoveries.

Right Centre Midfielders

Connor Shields (Chennaiyin FC)

Connor Shields created 76 chances in the 2024-25 season, the highest such tally in a single campaign in the league. Moreover, Chennaiyin FC’s creative hub recorded eight assists from those 76 chances, the most by any player this term. Shields also registered 218 crosses this season, becoming the first player to notch 200+ crosses in a single season in league history.

Greg Stewart (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Mohun Bagan Super Giant's creative powerhouse, Greg Stewart, has been instrumental in the Mariners’ ISL double this season. The Scottish playmaker recorded eight goal contributions while also creating 39 chances during the season.

Brison Fernandes (FC Goa)

FC Goa's rising youngster Brison Fernandes enjoyed a breakthrough season with the Gaurs. The midfielder established himself as a key player in Manolo Marquez's lineup with his impactful performance throughout the season, which saw him win the 'Emerging Player of the Season' award. He scored seven goals and provided two assists, while also creating 27 chances.

Borja Herrera (FC Goa)

Another FC Goa midfielder, Borja Herrera, also played a crucial role throughout the campaign. Herrera was instrumental with his link-up play, quick attacking transitions, and also racked up 10 goal contributions for the Gaurs.

Left Centre Midfielders

Javi Hernandez (Jamshedpur FC)

Javi Hernandez made 12 goal contributions (9 goals & 3 assists) in the 2024-25 season, his joint-most in a single season in the league (7 goals & 5 assists in 2022-23). Additionally, Hernandez won possession back 148 times throughout the season, the second-most by any player in this regard.

Hugo Boumous (Odisha FC)

Hugo Boumous picked up seven assists this season, the highest such tally by any Odisha FC player in a single campaign in league history. Boumous also recorded 159 progressive carries in the 2024-25 season, the most by any Odisha FC player in a single season.

Ezequiel Vidal (Punjab FC)

Ezequiel Vidal has been sensational in Punjab FC’s middle corridor with his sharp footwork and jaw-dropping long-range shots. The Argentine international scored seven goals this season while also registering three assists, playing a pivotal role in the Shers’ attacking unit.

Alberto Noguera (Bengaluru FC)

Alberto Noguera enjoyed a thrilling season with Bengaluru FC, anchoring the Blues’ midfield with his dynamic presence at both ends. Noguera won a league-high 77 fouls and also won 176 ground duels in the 2024-25 season, the most by any player in a single season in league history.

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2024-2025