In football, the ability to penetrate defenses is crucial. Players possessing mesmerizing skills, offensive prowess, keen vision, and agility introduce varied dynamics to their teams, often emerging as pivotal factors in critical moments. The 2023-24 season of the Indian Super League (ISL), spanning 227 days, witnessed a total of 237 assists, with Indian players contributing 54.85% and foreign players accounting for 45.15%.
From experienced campaigners like Lallianzuala Chhangte to seasoned veterans like Rafael Crivellaro, the season displayed ingenuity and adaptability. Let’s spotlight on the top 5 assist providers from the season.
Read More: Top 5 ISL Clubs with the Most Goals from Substitutes in the 2023-24 Season
Top 5 Assist Providers in ISL 2023-24
5. Lallianzuala Chhangte of Mumbai City FC – 6 Assists
Lallianzuala Chhangte of Mumbai City FC delivered 6 assists throughout the season. His offensive prowess and inventive play were unmatched. With his skillful maneuvers, precise footwork, strategic positioning, and composure during critical junctures, Chhangte showcased exceptional performance. Scoring 10 goals, he formed a formidable alliance with his fellow players, resulting in a combined total of 16 goal involvements this season.
The Mizo forward created 43 scoring opportunities, executed 37 crucial passes, completed 37 successful dribbles, and maintained an average of 24 passes per game, with a goal conversion rate of 22.73%.
4. Dimitrios Petratos of Mohun Bagan SG – 7 Assists
Dimitrios Petratos of Mohun Bagan SG contributed 7 assists during the season. He played a pivotal role in orchestrating offensive maneuvers for the team. With his smooth dribbling, adept ball control, and natural ability to exploit gaps in tight defenses, the Australian forward was instrumental in creating scoring opportunities.
As the recipient of the prestigious ‘Golden Ball’ Award, he completed 551 passes, averaging 29 passes per game with an impressive 81% passing accuracy. Petratos also led in creating the highest number of chances (60), made the second-highest number of attempts on goal (67), and scored 10 goals in 23 appearances.
3. Manvir Singh of Mohun Bagan SG – 7 Assists
Manvir Singh of Mohun Bagan SG contributed 7 assists during the season, showcasing his proficiency from the flanks. His powerful runs were a notable asset for the team. The dynamic winger excelled with his continuous bursts of speed, astute positional play, swift distribution of the ball, and accurate crosses from the right wing.
As an Indian international, Singh generated 37 scoring opportunities, delivered 30 crucial passes, executed 24 successful dribbles, and had 101 touches inside the opposition box. Moreover, he triumphed in 90 duels and completed 101 recoveries in his 23 appearances.
2. Rafael Crivellaro of Chennaiyin FC – 7 Assists
Rafael Crivellaro of Chennaiyin FC delivered 7 assists during the season, proving to be indispensable for the team. His partnership with Jordan Murray and Connor Shields was crucial in Chennaiyin’s late surge for playoff contention.
Crivellaro engineered 42 scoring opportunities, provided 35 decisive passes, completed 27 successful dribbles, and recorded 16 shots on target. Additionally, he netted four goals this season and showcased his proficiency in set-piece scenarios.
1. Madih Talal of Punjab FC – 10 Assists
Madih Talal of Punjab FC made a remarkable debut in the ISL, significantly boosting the team’s offensive capabilities. Talal stood out by leading the league with 10 assists, consistently setting up scoring opportunities for his teammates.
He also topped the charts for drawing fouls (71) and created the second-highest number of chances (57). Additionally, Talal found the back of the net six times in his 22 appearances, solidifying his status as one of the league’s most impactful players.
Another Honorary Indian Mention- Amey Ranawade of Odisha FC – 6 Assists
Amey Ranawade enjoyed a prosperous season under the guidance of Sergio Lobera at Odisha FC, earning recognition as the sole full-back on the list. The rapid right-back proved highly effective on the right flank, frequently overlapping to create numerous scoring opportunities for Roy Krishna and Diego Mauricio through accurate deliveries.
In addition to his offensive prowess, Ranawade demonstrated solidity in defense, consistently featuring alongside Mourtada Fall and Carlos Delgado in Kalinga Warriors’ defensive lineup. Throughout the season, he amassed impressive defensive statistics, including 35 successful tackles, 86 duels won, 93 recoveries, 10 blocks, and 29 interceptions in his 24 appearances.
