Top 3 transfers of the 2024-25 ISL season so far
It has been just over two weeks since the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024 summer transfer market opened, yet several notable signings have already been made. Clubs are actively revamping their squads, with two or three marquee signings already secured.
Leading the charge are Chennaiyin FC, who have made 11 signings to date. Under Owen Coyle’s leadership, the Marina Machans have a settled squad ahead of the pre-season and are moving in a positive direction ahead of the new season.
The two Kolkata giants have also been quite active in the transfer market, while Mumbai City FC are gradually rebuilding their squad after losing some key players. Other teams are exploring their options, but with plenty of time remaining, it is set to be another exciting transfer window.
On that note, here are the three most prominent transfers that have taken place so far this season.
#3 Madih Talal (Punjab FC - East Bengal FC)
Madih Talal was undoubtedly one of the most sought-after players following a stellar debut season in India. Despite a slow start, with both Punjab FC and himself struggling to adapt, the Frenchman came alive in the latter part of the season, effortlessly breaking through defenses with his passing and exquisite technique.
After scoring just once in the first half of the season, Talal finished the campaign with six goals and 10 assists in the ISL. He was the league’s top assist provider and created the third most chances among players, trailing only Brandon Fernandes and Dimitri Petratos, who played more games.
His performance against his new club, East Bengal FC, where he played a pivotal role in knocking them out of the ISL knockout rounds, was arguably one of the best in the ISL. In that match, he dominated the midfield battle, and wriggled past players with ease, while managing to assist twice and scoring once.
East Bengal FC already have a solid frontline with Dimitrios Diamantakos, Cleiton Silva, Nandhakumar Sekar, and Noarem Mahesh Singh, and adding Talal to the mix arguably makes it one of the best in the league.
#2 Jeremy Manzorro (Jamshedpur FC - Mumbai City FC)
Another Frenchman on the list whose transfer has somewhat flown under the radar is Jeremy Manzorro. Mumbai City FC moved quickly to sign him after his contract with Jamshedpur FC ended in late May.
Manzorro was a key player for Jamshedpur last season, playing a pivotal role in their late resurgence under Khalid Jamil. As a deep-lying playmaker, the Frenchman orchestrated the game with his impressive passing range, technical skills, and ability to navigate tight spaces.
Virtually every Jamshedpur play flowed through Manzorro, allowing him to dictate the pace of the game. He ended the season with over 80 percent passing accuracy, a notable feat considering the number of long balls and diagonal passes he made.
Additionally, he created 33 chances, the highest among Jamshedpur players and the 11th highest in the league. The 32-year-old also averaged 6.7 accurate long passes per game, the fourth highest in the league.
If Manzorro could achieve these with Jamshedpur FC, a team with comparatively lower possession statistics, imagine what he could accomplish at Mumbai City FC, a team that likes to control the tempo and dominate possession. In that sense, this transfer is undoubtedly one of the best in the ISL this season, as it suits both the club and the player.
#1 Apuia Ralte (Mumbai City FC - Mohun Bagan SG)
The Indian football silly season has witnessed yet another major transfer, with Mumbai City’s star Apuia Ralte joining rivals Mohun Bagan SG after the Mariners triggered his release clause, despite the Islanders’ reluctance.
Apuia is undoubtedly one of the most talented players in the country. At just 23, he already boasts plenty of experience in both the ISL and the continental competition, having played in the AFC Champions League for two seasons.
The former Emerging Player award winner is versatile but excels in a deeper role, where he can take his time on the ball and pick out passes. His technique in tight spaces and ability to make late runs into the penalty area also make him a valuable addition to any squad.
Mohun Bagan already have a star-studded squad, but they have lacked a player who can control the tempo of the game from deeper positions. Consequently, Apuia will fit perfectly into this side, as he has all the qualities to become the best midfielder in the country.
Ultimately, this is a huge transfer between two major ISL title contenders and has the potential to shift the season’s narrative.