Free agents in ISL: The Indian Super League has a history of signing free agents from European clubs that fell out of favour from their previous clubs. The clubs also follow a trend of signing players that have performed well within the ISL once their contract has run out. We will take a closer look at five of the most valuable free agents that competed in the Indian Super League last season, along with their market values.
1. Nasser El Khayati – ₹30,000,000
Nasser El Khayati had an impressive season with Chennaiyin FC in the 2022-2023 campaign. The attacking midfielder proved to be a key asset for the team, contributing significantly in the Indian Super League.
In the Indian Super League, El Khayati showcased his scoring prowess by finding the back of the net on 9 occasions throughout the season. Alongside his goal-scoring ability, he also provided a creative spark, tallying 5 assists for his teammates. His total playing time in the league amounted to 570 minutes, demonstrating his consistent involvement in the team’s attacking play.
In the Hero Super Cup, El Khayati featured in a single match, playing the full 90 minutes. Although he did not directly contribute to a goal or assist in this particular competition, his presence on the field undoubtedly added value to Chennaiyin FC’s performance.
Overall, Nasser El Khayati’s season with Chennaiyin FC was marked by his goal-scoring prowess, creativity, and consistent contributions to the team’s attacking efforts. His performances were crucial in helping the club that had a poor season. As a result, he solidified his reputation as a talented and influential attacking midfielder even at the age of 34.
2 Bruno Ramires – ₹30,000,000
Ramires had a productive season with Bengaluru FC during the 2022-2023 campaign. The midfielder made a significant contribution in multiple competitions, including the Indian Super League, Durand Cup, Hero Super Cup, and the Indian Super League Playoffs.
In the Indian Super League, Ramires appeared in 12 matches, accumulating a total of 807 minutes on the field. Although he did not register any goals or assists, his presence in the midfield added stability and support to the team’s gameplay.
During the Durand Cup, Ramires featured in 6 matches, playing a total of 482 minutes. While he did not contribute directly to goals or assists, his performances were notable for his disciplined approach, receiving 3 yellow cards highlighting his competitive nature and involvement in the matches, throughout the tournament.
In the Hero Super Cup, Ramires participated in 5 matches, totaling 450 minutes on the pitch. Although he did not score or assist during this competition, his involvement was crucial in Bengaluru FC’s campaign.
Lastly, in the Indian Super League Playoffs, Ramires played 4 matches, accumulating 425 minutes of playing time.
3. Jordan O’Doherty – ₹30,000,000
O’Doherty had a notable season with East Bengal FC during the 2022-2023 campaign. The midfielder contributed significantly to the team’s performance in both the Indian Super League and the Hero Super Cup.
In the Indian Super League, O’Doherty showcased his abilities in 18 matches, scoring 1 goal. His goal-scoring contribution provided a valuable boost to East Bengal FC’s attacking capabilities. Additionally, he accumulated 1 yellow card, highlighting his disciplined approach, throughout the tournament. O’Doherty’s total playing time in the league amounted to 1,105 minutes, demonstrating his consistent involvement in the team’s midfield.
In the Hero Super Cup, O’Doherty featured in 3 matches, playing a total of 50 minutes. Although he did not contribute directly to goals or assists during this competition, his presence on the field added depth to East Bengal FC’s midfield and aided the team’s performance.
4. Julius Düker – ₹26,000,000
Düker had a significant role in Chennaiyin FC’s 2022-2023 season across multiple competitions. In the Durand Cup, he showcased his versatility by playing as a Defensive Midfielder (DM) and Left Midfielder (LM). His strong performances helped Chennaiyin FC secure positive results.
His consistent presence in the midfield and defensive areas contributed to the team’s gameplay. Throughout the season, Düker amassed a total of 21 appearances, scoring 1 goal and receiving 1 yellow card. His commitment and versatility on the field were essential for Chennaiyin FC’s overall performance.
As the season progressed, Düker’s minutes played demonstrated his significance to the team, making him an integral part of Chennaiyin FC’s midfield setup.
5. Sylvester Igboun – ₹24,000,000
Igboun played just a game in the ISL last season. However, he had a productive season with Dynamo Moscow in the 2021-2022 campaign. The forward made significant contributions in both the Premier Liga and the Russian Cup.
In the Premier Liga, Igboun appeared in 11 matches, accumulating a total of 116 minutes on the field. Although he did not register any goals or assists, his presence in the team’s attacking play added depth to Dynamo Moscow’s offensive options.
During the Russian Cup, Igboun featured in 3 matches, playing a total of 64 minutes. In this competition, he found the back of the net once, showcasing his goal-scoring ability and providing a valuable contribution to Dynamo Moscow’s campaign.
Overall, Sylvester Igboun’s season with Dynamo Moscow was marked by his consistent presence on the pitch and his ability to make an impact in front of goal. While his minutes played were limited, he made the most of his opportunities, demonstrating his value as a forward for the team. His contributions in both the Premier Liga and the Russian Cup played a part in Dynamo Moscow’s success during the 2021-2022 season.
