The Indian Super League (ISL) has attracted some of the biggest names in international football over the years. However, not every star has been able to replicate their success in the ISL. In this article, we take a look at the top 10 international stars who were considered big failures during their stints in the ISL.
1.Diego Forlan – Mumbai City FC:
Diego Forlan, the Uruguayan football legend, joined Mumbai City FC in 2016. Despite his illustrious career, Forlan struggled to make an impact in the ISL, managing just five goals in 11 appearances. His lackluster performances led to a disappointing season for both him and his team.
2.Alessandro Del Piero – Delhi Dynamos:
Italian maestro Alessandro Del Piero, known for his heroics at Juventus, joined Delhi Dynamos in 2014. However, he failed to live up to the lofty expectations, scoring just one goal in ten matches. Del Piero’s inability to shine on the Indian stage left fans disappointed.
3.Robert Pires – FC Goa:
Robert Pires, the French World Cup winner, signed for FC Goa in 2014. Despite his technical skills and experience, Pires struggled to adapt to the physicality and pace of the ISL. He managed only two goals in ten appearances, falling short of the fans’ expectations.
4.Nicolas Anelka – Mumbai City FC:
Nicolas Anelka, the French striker with a successful career in top European clubs, joined Mumbai City FC in 2014. However, he failed to replicate his goal-scoring prowess in the ISL, netting only twice in seven games. Anelka’s underwhelming performances were a disappointment for his team and supporters.
5.Florent Malouda – Delhi Dynamos:
Florent Malouda, the former Chelsea and French national team midfielder, joined Delhi Dynamos in 2015. Despite his reputation, Malouda struggled to make a significant impact, managing just three goals in 14 appearances. His lack of influence on the pitch was a letdown for his team.
6.Dimitar Berbatov – Kerala Blasters:
Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov, known for his elegant style of play, joined Kerala Blasters in 2017. However, his stint in the ISL was marked by inconsistent performances and injuries. Berbatov scored just one goal in eight matches, falling far short of the fans’ expectations.
7.Mikaël Silvestre – Chennaiyin FC:
Former Manchester United defender Mikaël Silvestre joined Chennaiyin FC in 2014. However, his time in the ISL was marred by injuries and a lack of form. Silvestre struggled to provide stability in the defense, failing to make a lasting impact on the league.
8.Simão Sabrosa – NorthEast United FC:
Portuguese winger Simão Sabrosa joined NorthEast United FC in 2014. Despite his experience and skill, Simão struggled to adapt to the demanding nature of the ISL. He managed just one goal in 11 appearances, leaving fans disappointed.
9.Elano Blumer – Chennaiyin FC:
Brazilian midfielder Elano Blumer, who enjoyed success with Chennaiyin FC initially, failed to maintain his high standards in subsequent seasons. In his second stint with the team, Elano struggled with injuries and managed only two goals in ten matches, unable to recapture his previous form.
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10.Didier Zokora – FC Pune City:
Ivorian midfielder Didier Zokora joined FC Pune City in 2015. However, despite his reputation, he failed to make a significant impact in the ISL. Struggling to control the midfield and provide defensive stability, Zokora’s underwhelming performances were a letdown for both his team and supporters.
On the other hand, the ISL has witnessed the arrival of numerous international stars. However, success on the global stage does not always translate to success in the Indian Super League. In fact, several notable players, including Diego Forlan, Alessandro Del Piero, and Nicolas Anelka, have failed to meet the expectations of fans and struggled to make a lasting impact in the league.
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