The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024–25 season delivered not just thrilling football but a platform for new faces to make lasting impressions. Whether through marquee signings or homegrown surprises, debutants made a resounding impact across the campaign.
Jamie Maclaren – Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG)
Arriving with global pedigree, Jamie Maclaren initially took time to find his rhythm in MBSG’s system. But by season’s end, he had 12 goals and 2 assists, including the ISL Cup-winning strike, cementing his reputation and importance in a title-winning campaign.
Alaaeddine Ajaraie – NorthEast United FC (NEUFC)
The season’s biggest revelation, Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie, stormed the league with 23 goals and 7 assists in 25 matches. His seven braces, adaptability in attack, and clinical finishing earned him the Golden Boot and Golden Ball, lifting NEUFC into playoff contention and re-signing with the club for another season under Juan Pedro Benali.
Nathan Rodrigues – Mumbai City FC
With Akash Mishra injured and Sahil Panwar out of form, Nathan Rodrigues stepped in and flourished. The pacy and technical left-back contributed not just defensively but offensively, scoring 3 goals and assisting 1, while showcasing progressive ball movement and modern full-back dynamism.
Edgar Mendez – Bengaluru FC
While Jorge Pereyra Diaz was tipped to be BFC’s lead man, it was Edgar Mendez who lit up their frontline. Building strong chemistry with Sunil Chhetri and Ryan Williams, Mendez tallied 9 goals and 4 assists, proving to be a vital cog in Bengaluru FC’s attacking machine.
Jesus Jimenez – Kerala Blasters FC
Tasked with replacing Dimitrios Diamantakos, Jimenez began brightly, scoring in 9 of his first 12 matches. Despite a mid-season injury, he wrapped up with 11 goals and 1 assist in 18 appearances, offering promise despite KBFC’s inconsistent run.
Vinith Venkatesh – Bengaluru FC
A breakout campaign for the 19-year-old midfielder from the BFC academy. In 19 appearances, Venkatesh displayed maturity beyond his years, with 1 goal, 2 assists, and expert set-piece delivery. His vision and composure marked him as one to watch.
Mayakkannan – NorthEast United FC
An unsung hero in midfield, Mayakkannan played 24 matches, recording 105 ball recoveries, 23 interceptions, and 15 chances created. His link-up with Mohammed Ali Bemammer added stability and control to NEUFC’s midfield, making him a cornerstone of their tactical setup.
Notable Mentions:
- Andrei Alba (Hyderabad FC) – Midfield creativity and work rate.
- David Lalhlansanga (East Bengal FC) – Promising forward movement and flair.
- Mirjalol Kasimov (Mohammedan SC) – Versatile attacking presence.