One of the most renowned and fiercely competitive football competitions in Asia is the Indian Super League (ISL). The league has seen a surge in both the caliber of play and the level of excitement it generates among spectators with each passing season. Football fans are anxiously awaiting some spectacular matches and fierce rivalry as the 2023–24 Indian Super League season already started. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the top 5 teams to watch out for in the Indian Super League season, based on their recent performances, squad strength, and potential for success.
ISL Winners List
| ISL season | Champions | Runners Up |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | ATK Mohun Bagan | Bengaluru FC |
| 2021-22 | Hyderabad FC | Kerala Blasters |
| 2020-21 | Mumbai City FC | ATK Mohun Bagan |
| 2019-20 | ATK | Chennaiyin FC |
| 2018-19 | Bengaluru FC | FC Goa |
| 2017-18 | Chennaiyin FC | Bengaluru FC |
| 2016 | ATK | Kerala Blasters |
| 2015 | Chennaiyin FC | FC Goa |
| 2014 | ATK | Kerala Blasters |
Top 5 Teams to Watch Out for in Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-2024
Kerala Blasters FC
Kerala Blasters FC, despite not having won an ISL title yet, remains one of the most popular and beloved teams in the league. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi has an exhilarating atmosphere because of the Blasters’ large and devoted fan base. Kerala Blasters have significantly improved their gameplay in recent seasons. Under the guidance of new head coach Ivan Vukomanović, they have adopted a more balanced approach and focused on nurturing young talents.
The team’s marquee signing, Kwame Peprah, is a Ghanaian professional footballer, and the Blasters have also brought in experienced foreigners like Marko Lešković and Adrián Luna. These additions, along with the continued support of their passionate fans, make Kerala Blasters FC a team that could surprise many in this season.
Also read | Offside Rule in Football Explained
Mumbai City FC
The defending champions, Mumbai City FC, will be looking to maintain their dominance in this season. Under the guidance of head coach Des Buckingham, the Islanders have played an attractive brand of football, emphasizing quick passing and attacking flair. Mumbai City FC’s squad is a blend of seasoned ISL performers and young talents. Players like Lallianzuala Chhangte, Phurba Lachenpa, and Yoell van Nieff are among the newer fan favorites’ to play for Mumbai City FC.
The team’s ownership, City Football Group, also adds a level of professionalism and resources that few other clubs can match. Their ability to control possession, create scoring opportunities, and exploit opposition weaknesses makes them a formidable force.
Also read | Top 10 Best Football Balls to Buy Online
Bengaluru FC
Bengaluru FC has been a consistent performer in the ISL, reaching the playoffs in each of their previous seasons. Coached by Simon Grayson, the Blues have a reputation for their solid defense, physicality, and tactical discipline. The key to Bengaluru FC’s success lies in their star players, including Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, and Bruno Ramires.
What sets Bengaluru FC apart is their passionate fan base and the electric atmosphere they create at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. This support often acts as the twelfth man, inspiring the team to perform at their best.
Also read | Football Injuries: Exploration of the Injuries & Strategies for Recovery
Mohun Bagan Super Giants
Mohun Bagan Super Giants is a powerhouse in Indian football, with a rich history and a fanatical following. Merging with Mohun Bagan AC in 2020, the club has been a dominant force in the ISL since its inception. They have consistently displayed impressive teamwork, sturdy defense, and clinical finishing in front of goal. Their roster boasts some of the best talent in the league, with star players like Dimitri Petratos, Jason Cummings, and Hugo Boumous. Juan Ferrando, the team’s new coach, is known for his ability to extract the best from his players.
They are known for their strong defense, making it challenging for opponents to break through. Their combination of experienced Indian players and international talent positions them as one of the favorites to lift the ISL trophy once again in 2023-24.
Also read | Football In India and the world – Know everything about the sport
FC Goa
FC Goa has been a consistent force in the ISL, known for their possession-based style of play and attacking prowess. Moreover, the club has a strong emphasis on nurturing local talent, with players like Brandon Fernandes and Saviour Gama making significant contributions. Additionally, the presence of foreign stars like Ferran Corominas and Carl McHugh adds a touch of flair to their gameplay.
FC Goa’s ability to control the midfield and create goal-scoring opportunities from various positions on the field makes them a team that is always exciting to watch. They reached the final in the 2019-2020 season and will be eager to go all the way in the 2023-24 ISL season.
Also read | Red & Yellow Card in Football | Know The Role of Cards in Football
Conclusion
As the Indian Super League continues to grow in stature and quality, the 2023-24 season promises to be another thrilling chapter in Indian football history. The five teams mentioned above, Mohun Bagan Super Giants, Mumbai City FC, Bengaluru FC, Kerala Blasters FC, and FC Goa, stand out as the ones to watch out for based on their recent performances, squad strength, and potential for success.
Whether you’re a passionate fan or a casual observer of Indian football, these teams are sure to provide a spectacle of skill, drama, and excitement throughout the season. With top-class coaches, star players, and passionate supporters, the ISL is set to capture the hearts of football fans once again in 2023-24, and these teams will undoubtedly play a significant role in that captivating journey.
Also read | Top 10 best shin pads for Football | Protect your shins from injuries
