Soccer in India has grown rapidly, producing world-class talent that shines both domestically and internationally. In 2025, Indian players continue to make headlines with their skill, leadership, and dedication. This list highlights the top 10 Indian soccer players dominating the sport this year, featuring goal-scoring legends, rock-solid defenders, and creative midfielders. Let’s dive into their achievements and stats!
1. Sunil Chhetri
Position: Striker
Team: Bengaluru FC (Indian Super League)
Sunil Chhetri, often called “Captain Fantastic,” remains India’s most iconic footballer. At 40, he’s still breaking records in 2025:
- 11 goals in 18 ISL matches this season
- All-time top scorer for India with 94 international goals
- Holds the record for most appearances for the Indian national team (151 matches)
Chhetri’s leadership guided Bengaluru FC to multiple ISL titles, and his ability to perform under pressure makes him a national treasure.
2. Sandesh Jhingan
Position: Center-Back
Team: FC Goa (Indian Super League)
Known for his physicality and defensive mastery, Jhingan is India’s backbone in defense:
- 62 overall rating in EA Sports FC 25, the highest for an Indian defender
- Key player in India’s 2023 SAFF Championship victory
- Recorded 19 interceptions and 35 clearances in the 2024–25 ISL season
His aerial strength and tactical awareness make him a nightmare for attackers.
3. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu
Position: Goalkeeper
Team: Bengaluru FC (Indian Super League)
Standing at 6’5”, Gurpreet is India’s wall between the posts:
- 5 clean sheets in 16 ISL matches this season
- Saved 70.83% of shots faced (51 saves out of 72)
- First Indian to play in a UEFA Europa League match (2016)
His heroics in a goalless draw against Qatar during World Cup qualifiers remain unforgettable.
4. Anirudh Thapa
Position: Midfielder
Team: Mohun Bagan Super Giant (Indian Super League)
Thapa is the creative engine of India’s midfield:
- 2 goals and 2 assists in 12 ISL matches this season
- Known for 81% passing accuracy and 16 chances created
- Played a pivotal role in India’s 2024 T20 World Cup campaign
His vision and ability to control the game’s tempo set him apart.
5. Lallianzuala Chhangte
Position: Winger
Team: Mumbai City FC (Indian Super League)
Chhangte is India’s speedster on the wings:
- 3 goals and 3 assists in 16 ISL matches
- Topped EA Sports FC 25 ratings for Indian players (68 overall)
- Won the 2023–24 ISL Golden Boot with 10 goals
His dribbling and crossing accuracy make him a fan favorite.
6. Pritam Kotal
Position: Right-Back
Team: Kerala Blasters FC (Indian Super League)
Kotal blends defensive grit with attacking flair:
- 5 clean sheets and 22 tackles in 17 matches
- Helped Kerala Blasters secure a top-four ISL finish in 2025
- Two-time SAFF Championship winner with India
His versatility allows him to play both as a full-back and center-back.
7. Rowllin Borges
Position: Defensive Midfielder
Team: FC Goa (Indian Super League)
Borges is the unsung hero of India’s midfield:
- 4 goals and 1 assist in 21 matches this season
- Key in FC Goa’s 2024 Durand Cup victory
- Known for 85% tackle success rate and interceptions
His work rate and ability to break opposition plays are unmatched.
8. Jerry Mawihmingthanga
Position: Winger
Team: Odisha FC (Indian Super League)
Jerry’s electrifying pace terrorizes defenders:
- 4 goals and 5 assists in 16 ISL matches
- Topped the league in dribbles completed (42)
- Named “Hero of the Match” three times in 2025
His crosses and cut-ins create constant threats.
9. Vishnu PV
Position: Forward
Team: SC East Bengal (Indian Super League)
Vishnu is India’s rising star in attack:
- 4 goals in 16 matches as a 22-year-old rookie
- Scored a hat-trick against Punjab FC in December 2024
- Praised for his clinical finishing and off-the-ball movement
He’s tipped to become India’s next big striker.
10. Aakash Sangwan
Position: Left-Back
Team: FC Goa (Indian Super League)
Sangwan excels in both defense and attack:
- 1 goal, 2 assists, and 5 clean sheets this season
- Completed 87% of his passes in the 2024–25 ISL
- Versatile enough to play as a wing-back or midfielder
His stamina and crossing accuracy make him a modern full-back.
Conclusion
Indian soccer is thriving in 2025, thanks to these extraordinary players. From Sunil Chhetri’s legendary strikes to young talents like Vishnu PV, the future looks bright. Whether you’re a casual fan or a soccer enthusiast, these players showcase the passion and skill driving India’s football revolution.