Strategic Squad Depth: Key to Success in the Indian Super League 2024-25

The Importance of Squad Depth in ISL

New Delhi [India] - As the Indian Super League (ISL) continues to grow in competitiveness, effectively managing squad depth has become essential. During the 2024-25 season, teams frequently modified their lineups, influenced by the tactical strategies of their coaches.

With the season nearing its conclusion, an analysis of the teams that effectively utilized their player rosters reveals how squad rotation impacted their overall performance.

East Bengal FC faced challenges throughout the season in establishing their optimal starting lineup, utilizing 32 players. Injuries to key athletes and multiple suspensions forced the team to make frequent adjustments, ultimately hindering their playoff aspirations for the fifth consecutive year, as noted on the ISL website.

Similarly, both Mohammedan Sporting Club and Kerala Blasters FC employed 29 players this season. Following the departure of head coaches Andre Chernyshov and Mikael Stahre, interim coaches Mehrajuddin Wadoo and T.G. Puroshothaman took over, leading to ongoing changes in their squads and inconsistent results.

Mumbai City FC's performance this season fell short of their usual standards. Although they secured a playoff position, the team, led by Petr Kratky, struggled with consistency and failed to deliver strong performances at the Mumbai Football Arena. Injuries to key players like Nikolaos Karelis, Jon Toral, and Brandon Fernandes limited their options, resulting in the use of 28 players.

Punjab FC started the league with great momentum but faltered mid-season, finishing outside the top six. Injuries to players such as Filip Mrzljak, Luka Majcen, Ezequiel Vidal, and Ivan Novoselec affected their performance. Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis also integrated several academy players, including Muhammad Suhail, Manglenthang Kipgen, and Pramveer Singh, to build a more balanced squad for the future, utilizing 27 players in total.

Bengaluru FC, NorthEast United FC, Jamshedpur FC, and Hyderabad FC all fielded 26 players during the season and successfully reached the playoffs, with the exception of the Yellow and Black Brigade.

Bengaluru FC had a remarkable season, finishing as runners-up in the ISL Cup final. Both NorthEast United FC and Jamshedpur FC displayed commendable performances, securing playoff spots after previous absences.