Every pass matters. It might not always make the highlight reel but it's often the small passes that keep a team ticking and some players did that better than anyone else this season. The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 campaign saw a few names consistently get the basics right and quietly control the tempo of matches.

From kick-off to full-time, these players were at the heart of the action; linking play, moving the ball efficiently and helping their teams stay in control. They may not always be flashy but their numbers speak volumes.

So if you're curious to know who kept the ball rolling, literally, here's the list of the most successful passers from the recent ISL season.

1) Mehtab Singh (Mumbai City FC) - 1353 passes from 23 matches

Topping the list is Mehtab Singh, who led all players with 1353 successful passes this season. A consistent figure in Mumbai City FC’s backline, Singh was calm, composed and always available for a pass.

His role was straightforward: build from the back, keep things tidy and avoid overcomplicating. And to his credit, he executed that better than anyone. Despite operating in defence, he finished with the highest pass count. His presence went under the radar as Mumbai City FC made another playoff appearance.

2) Rahul Bheke (Bengaluru FC) - 1129 passes from 26 matches

Bheke has always been dependable and this season was no different as he returned to Bengaluru FC and helped them reach the ISL final. With 1129 successful passes, Bheke proved to be more than just a defensive rock, he was also a key outlet in possession.

With Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza emphasising ball retention and attacking football, Bheke became a vital part of their buildup play, whether operating at right-back or tucked into a central role.

3) Tiri (Mumbai City FC) - 1120 passes from 21 matches

A Mumbai City FC player features again on the list, this time, though, it’s Tiri who was one of only four players to cross the 1000-pass mark this season.

A seasoned ISL campaigner, Tiri’s composure under pressure and ball-playing ability have long been his strengths. With Mumbai City FC sticking to their possession-heavy identity despite losing several core players in the summer, Tiri was a key figure in maintaining that philosophy.

4) Tom Aldred (Mohun Bagan Super Giant) - 1028 passes from 26 matches

Tom Aldred is best known for his physicality and aerial prowess, but his numbers this season reflect a strong showing in distribution too. He rounds off the group of players with over 1000 successful passes.

Most of his passes were short balls into midfield, but they played a crucial role in keeping things steady for the Mariners. It wasn’t flashy, but it was effective. And in the absence of other defensive regulars, Aldred stepped up and took charge.

5) Alberto Rodríguez (Mohun Bagan Super Giant) - 981 passes from 22 matches

Joining Aldred on the list is Alberto Rodríguez, who complemented his defensive partner at the heart of MBSG’s backline with his structured passing game.

Known for his positional awareness and composure, the Spanish centre-back played a key role in building from the back. He didn’t take unnecessary risks but rarely lost the ball either, perfect for a side focused on possession control.

6) Subhasish Bose (Mohun Bagan Super Giant) - 968 passes from 25 matches

Bose may not be the first name you’d associate with high passing numbers, but the MBSG defender had a terrific season in all aspects.

Not only did he score the most goals among MBSG defenders and all defenders in the league, but he also topped the club’s charts for tackles and interceptions. His work in wide areas while building attacks definitely deserves more credit.

7) Chinglensana Singh (Bengaluru FC) - 947 passes from 25 matches

Singh had a quietly effective season, helping Bengaluru FC make it to the final. One of the league’s best ball-playing defenders, his numbers underline his value in possession.

While he didn’t start the season as a regular, Sana forced his way into the eleven as the campaign progressed, forming a solid central partnership with Bheke and helping initiate attacks from deep.

8) Hmingthanmawia Ralte (Mumbai City FC) - 946 passes from 24 matches

Mumbai City FC’s third entry in the top 10, Ralte impressed with his passing ability while contributing at both ends of the pitch.

It’s no surprise to see his name here, given Mumbai City FC’s possession-focused style under Petr Kratky. Ralte was often tasked with shielding the defence and circulating the ball, allowing more adventurous teammates to push forward. No big headlines, but a vital part of the machine.

9) Yoell van Nieff (Mumbai City FC) - 927 passes from 23 matches

Finally, a midfielder!

Van Nieff brought stability and balance to a revamped Mumbai City FC midfield. Always offering a short passing option, he kept the play flowing and dictated tempo in key moments.

His calmness in possession and ability to make smart, accurate passes made him an essential part of the Islanders’ midfield, especially during high-pressure phases.

10) Alberto Noguera (Bengaluru FC) - 909 passes from 26 matches

Closing out the list is Alberto Noguera, who finished the season with over 900 successful passes. One of the most technically gifted midfielders in the ISL, Noguera enjoyed a standout campaign for Bengaluru FC.

Operating as a deep-lying playmaker, he constantly kept things moving in midfield while also providing attacking contributions, finishing the season with five goals and three assists. Zaragoza relied heavily on him as a key cog in their route to the final.