ISL Team of the Year 2024: A look at the nominees for forwards and head coaches
The voting for forwards and head coaches is now open and will close at 2:00 PM IST and 4:30 PM IST, respectively, on December 31, 2024.
The Indian Super League (ISL) thrilled fans throughout 2024 with unforgettable moments of excitement and drama.
The 2023-24 season saw Mohun Bagan Super Giant claim the League Shield on the final day of the league phase after defeating Mumbai City FC. However, the Islanders had the last laugh in the playoffs, avenging their loss by defeating the Mariners in the final to reclaim the ISL Cup.
The current season marked a historic milestone with the century-old Mohammedan SC joining the ISL. As the year draws to a close, reigning Shield winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant remain in commanding form, leading the league after 13 games with 29 points—two ahead of Bengaluru FC.
Now, it’s time for fans to select their Team of the Year.
To cast your vote, visit ISL's official Instagram handle, check the latest stories, and choose your favourite players.
Lock in your 🫵 front line for the Team of the Year! 🔒⚽
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) December 30, 2024
Head to the IG Stories now to vote for your favorite forwards and complete the lineup!#ISL #LetsFootball #FTOTY | @JioCinema @Sports18 @StarSportsIndia pic.twitter.com/cc4gybSRNI
Voting for goalkeepers, defenders, and midfielders is already complete. Fans will now decide the best forwards and head coach, with voting currently open until December 31 at 2 PM IST and 4:30 PM IST respectively.
Here’s a look at the nominees:
Right winger: Manvir Singh vs Lallianzuala Chhangte
Manvir Singh has been a standout performer on the right wing for Mohun Bagan Super Giant. His knack for delivering in crucial moments under Antonio López Habas was instrumental in the Mariners’ 2023-24 campaign. This season, Manvir has seamlessly adapted to José Molina’s style, recording three goals and three assists so far.
Lallianzuala Chhangte took his game to another level during Mumbai City FC’s strong finish to last season, playing a key role in their league resurgence and ISL Cup victory. This season, the winger has embraced new responsibilities, captaining the Islanders after Rahul Bheke’s departure. Chhangte has already made his mark with three assists and a goal this term.
Striker: Diego Mauricio vs Alaaeddine Ajaraie
Diego Mauricio continues to shine as Odisha FC’s talisman. The Brazilian forward played a vital role in their first-ever semi-final appearance last season, including a crucial equalizer in the playoff knockout match against Kerala Blasters FC. This season, Mauricio has maintained his scoring touch, with seven goals and three assists to his name.
Alaaeddine Ajaraie has been the revelation of the season for NorthEast United FC. The Moroccan forward, who joined the ISL for the 2024-25 campaign, has been in blistering form, scoring in each of his first eight league matches. He currently leads the Golden Boot race with 12 goals and has also contributed four assists.
Left winger: Dimitrios Petratos vs Noah Sadaoui
Dimitrios Petratos started the year in sensational form, continuing his pivotal role for Mohun Bagan Super Giant during their historic 2023-24 League Shield-winning campaign. The Aussie forward blanked in just two matches during the final phase of the league stage last season. Under new head coach José Molina, Petratos has transitioned to a deeper playmaking role, contributing two goals and three assists in the ongoing season.
Noah Sadaoui made headlines with his move to Kerala Blasters FC from FC Goa ahead of the 2024-25 season. The Moroccan forward finished last season on a high, helping the Gaurs secure a playoff berth after a three-season gap. Despite the Blasters’ struggles early in the new season, Sadaoui has hit the ground running, scoring five goals and providing four assists in 12 matches.
Head Coach: Antonio Lopez Habas vs Petr Kratky
Antonio López Habas masterminded Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s League Shield triumph in the 2023-24 season and came close to achieving the double. However, a resurgent Mumbai City FC denied them the ISL Cup in a thrilling final.
Petr Kratky took charge of Mumbai City FC midway through the 2023-24 season and orchestrated a remarkable turnaround. Although the Islanders narrowly missed out on the League Shield, they dominated the playoffs and secured their second ISL Cup with a memorable victory over the Mariners in the final.