Over the years, the Indian Super League (ISL) has been graced with numerous signings that didn’t just raise eyebrows but redefined what fans thought was possible in Indian football.

Amidst the marquee headlines and blockbuster announcements, there have numerous signings that have completely changed the narrative. Such signings defy expectations and ignite fan debates, and turned out to become the X-factor for their respective teams.

From unheralded recruits turning into match-winners to marquee names showcasing their magic, these signings took everyone by surprise and left a lasting mark on the ISL.

Elano Blumer (Chennaiyin FC)

In the inaugural 2014 season, Elano Blumer, who was squarely on the big-name marquee list, and his influence was profound. Elano, with his leadership, consistency, and flair, set the trend of the ISL and established Chennaiyin FC’s identity in ISL folklore.

The former Manchester City midfielder, known for his technical artistry, brought a touch of South American elegance that Indian football had rarely seen. He brought in an instant impact, scoring eight goals in 11 appearances to win the Golden Boot award.

Marcelinho (Delhi Dynamos FC)

Few expected Marcelinho to set the league ablaze when he joined Delhi Dynamos. A playmaker of an elite class, Marcelinho took the league by storm in his debut 2016 campaign, where he scored 10 goals, earning him the coveted Golden Boot award.

With his flair, vision, and lethal left foot, the Brazilian was a cult hero for every team he has played for. Marcelinho has left an indelible mark on the league, but the silverware always eluded him.

Ferran Corominas (FC Goa)

Ferran Corominas, fondly known as Coro, wasn’t a headline-grabbing name when he joined FC Goa in 2017. But the Spaniard went on to become one of the ISL’s most prolific and impactful forwards.

During his three-year stint at FC Goa, Coro’s consistent goal-scoring prowess, intelligence in the box, and seamless link-up in the final third proved him a finisher of the highest order, redefining what it meant to be a striker in the ISL. Coro racked up 18 goals and five assists, setting a new record at that time, eventually winning the prestigious Golden Boot award in the 2017-18 season.

Nerijus Valskis (Chennaiyin FC)

Nerijus Valskis became Chennaiyin FC’s undisputed talisman soon after joining the club in 2019. The Lithuanian forward injected a match-winning ability with his sharp-shooting abilities, playing a pivotal role in their road to the ISL Cup final in the 2019-20 season.

Known for his precise finishing and sharp headers, Valskis proved himself as one of the most sensational strikers to wear a CFC jersey. He scored 15 goals and provided six assists for the Marina Machans, winning the Golden Boot award in his debut 2019-20 season.

Greg Stewart (Jamshedpur FC)

Greg Stewart, a wizard on the pitch who can make the ball speak. His left foot has been a wand, weaving intricate passes, orchestrating attacks, and controlling the tempo of the game from the heart of the midfield.

The Scottish playmaker was the linchpin in Jamshedpur FC's historic League Shield triumph in the 2021-22 season, recording 11 goals and 10 assists, eventually winning the coveted Golden Ball accolade. From stunning free-kick goals to brilliant solo goals, incisive through balls, and visionary passing range, Stewart was one of the greats, if not the greatest, in his position.

Alaaeddine Ajaraie (NorthEast United FC)

Fast forward to the recent season, and Alaaeddine Ajaraie has emerged as the latest name to carry the ISL’s tradition of surprise brilliance. A gem of a player, Ajaraie not only established himself among the league's elite but also played a pivotal role in NorthEast United FC’s playoff qualification after a three-year hiatus.

Ajaraie’s debut season became a record-breaking phenomenon where he didn't just score; he set a league alight, and maintained a near-unprecedented consistency, eventually winning the coveted Golden Boot and the Golden Ball in the same season. The Moroccan forward scored 23 goals and registered seven assists to record the highest goal contributions in a single season.