As the pulse of Indian football quickens with each spirited match, the I-League emerges as a breeding ground for extraordinary talent, showcasing the prowess of players who define excellence on the pitch. In the dynamic realm of the men’s second-tier Indian football league, a constellation of 13 clubs vies for supremacy, engaged in a spirited dance of promotion and relegation with the prestigious Indian Super League (ISL) and the I-League 2.
In this highly competitive arena, players ascend to the forefront, etching their names in the annals of football glory through exceptional skill, strategic brilliance, and unmatched dedication. Join us on a captivating journey as we unravel the identities of the topmost valuable players in the I-League, dissecting their contributions and impact on the game that resonates across the vibrant tapestry of Indian football.
Top 5 Most Valuable Players in I-League
1. David Castañed – 4 Cr.
Juan David Castañeda Muñoz, the prolific Colombian striker, has emerged as a formidable force in the I-League, donning the colors of the Sreenidi Deccan. Born on 26 January 1995, Castañeda’s journey in professional football has been nothing short of remarkable, spanning across continents and leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
His sojourn in the I-League commenced on 20 September 2021, as he donned the jersey of the recently-inducted Sreenidi Deccan. The debut, on 27 December 2021, against NEROCA, witnessed Castañeda’s immediate impact, contributing with a goal in a pulsating 3–2 encounter, showcasing his scoring prowess.
Undoubtedly recognized for his exceptional abilities on the field, Castañeda’s market value in the I-League stands at an impressive 4 crores, a testament to his significance and impact within the league. The 2022–23 season saw him retained by Sreenidi Deccan, where he continued his goal-scoring exploits, finishing as the second-highest scorer, trailing only behind the prolific Luka Majcen.
As the curtains rose on the 2023–24 league season, Castañeda once again demonstrated his offensive prowess. Playing a pivotal role in Sreenidi Deccan’s resounding 4–0 victory over NEROCA, he notched up a remarkable brace, setting the stage for another season of awe-inspiring performances.
Juan David Castañeda Muñoz stands tall as a beacon of skill, resilience, and goal-scoring brilliance, etching his name among the league’s most valuable players.
2. Komron Tursunov – 3.6 Cr.
Komron Tursunov, the dynamic Tajik footballer, has etched his name in the narrative of Indian football with his versatile skills and impactful performances. Born on 24 April 1996, Tursunov has navigated through various clubs, leaving an indelible mark on the I-League and contributing significantly to the teams he has represented.
Currently donning the jersey of Gokulam Kerala in the I-League, Tursunov showcases his prowess primarily as a Right Winger but also as a forward, making him a potent force in the offensive lineup. His versatility and goal-scoring ability have propelled him to become the second most valuable player in the I-League, trailing only behind the formidable David Castañeda, with a market value of 3.6 crores.
Tursunov’s journey in the I-League commenced on 21 December 2019 when he signed for Mohun Bagan. His impact was immediate, scoring his inaugural goal against NEROCA FC at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium. Not only did he contribute individually, but he also played a pivotal role in Mohun Bagan clinching the league title in that memorable season.
The subsequent seasons witnessed Tursunov’s journey through various I-League clubs, including TRAU and Churchill Brothers, showcasing his scoring prowess and ability to adapt to different team dynamics. Notably, during his stint with TRAU, he achieved the distinction of scoring the league’s fastest-ever goal in just 9 seconds.
His journey took an international detour as well, with a return to the Tajikistan Higher League, signing for FK Khujand, before making a swift return to the Indian football scene. Notably, in December 2021, Tursunov joined the newly promoted I-League club Rajasthan United FC on a season-long deal.
In August 2023, the dynamic Tajik footballer embarked on a new chapter, joining the ranks of Gokulam Kerala. As he continues to make waves in the I-League, Komron Tursunov remains a captivating figure, blending skill, versatility, and a penchant for finding the back of the net.
3. Richard Gadze – 2.2 Cr.
Richard Gadze, the prolific Ghanaian striker, has become a notable presence in the I-League, gracing the stage as the dynamic forward for Rajasthan United. Born on 23 August 1994, Gadze’s football journey spans across various continents, showcasing his scoring prowess and adaptability in different leagues.
Currently ranked as the third most valuable player in the I-League, with a market value of 2.2 crores, Gadze has left an indelible mark on the league, following in the footsteps of standout players like David Castañeda and Komron Tursunov.
Gadze’s introduction to Indian football took place in the Indian Super League, where he signed for Delhi Dynamos in September 2015. Making an immediate impact, he scored his maiden goal in a 2–1 victory over Pune City on 14 October 2015.
The Ghanaian striker’s journey continued with loan spells and transfers to various clubs around the globe. Notably, he joined Veikkausliiga side Helsingin Jalkapalloklubi on loan in January 2016 before returning to Delhi Dynamos in September 2016. Subsequently, Gadze ventured into the Azerbaijan Premier League, representing Zira FK in multiple stints.
In August 2020, he took a significant step in his career by signing with Sheriff Tiraspol. Gadze continued to make waves, eventually moving to Sumgayit in the Azerbaijan Premier League, where he made an immediate impact by scoring against “Neftchi” in his debut.
The footballing odyssey of Richard Gadze came full circle in September 2023 when he returned to India, this time donning the colors of Rajasthan United in the I-League. As a striker with a penchant for finding the back of the net, Gadze brings a wealth of experience and skill to the squad, adding to the league’s vibrant and diverse talent pool.
4. Mario Barco – 2.2 Cr.
Mario Barco Vilar, the seasoned Spanish striker, has added his flair to the canvas of the I-League, representing the vibrant Inter Kashi. Born on 23 December 1992, Barco’s football journey spans various clubs in Spain, showcasing his scoring prowess and experience on the field.
Currently ranked as the fourth most valuable player in the I-League, alongside the likes of Richard Gadze, with a market value of 2.2 crores, Barco brings a wealth of experience to the Indian football scene.
Barco’s journey commenced in his native Spain, where he honed his skills with CD Calahorra, Peña Sport FC, and Athletic Bilbao during his formative years. Making his senior debut with CD Calahorra in the 2011–12 campaign, he left an indelible mark by scoring 20 goals in Tercera División.
His talents didn’t go unnoticed, leading to a move to UD Logroñés in Segunda División B in August 2012. Over the years, he traversed through various clubs in the Spanish football hierarchy, making significant contributions, including stints with Barakaldo CF, CD Lugo, and Pontevedra CF.
Barco’s proficiency in front of goal reached new heights when he made his professional debut on 12 October 2017, scoring for Cádiz CF in a 2–0 home win against Córdoba CF. His journey continued with CD Mirandés and CD Castellón, showcasing his adaptability and skill in different leagues.
The Spanish striker’s global expedition took an intriguing turn when he signed for Numancia in the Segunda Federación. However, the allure of Indian football beckoned, and in 2023, Mario Barco Vilar made the leap to Inter Kashi, bringing his experience and goal-scoring prowess to the I-League.
5. William – 2.2 Cr.
William Alves de Oliveira, the seasoned Brazilian forward, has brought his flair and goal-scoring prowess to the I-League, representing the dynamic Sreenidi Deccan. Born on 7 December 1991, William Alves has carved his footballing journey through various clubs, showcasing his versatility and goal-scoring abilities.
Currently standing as the fifth most valuable player in the I-League, alongside his teammate David Castaneda, with a market value of 2.2 crores, William Alves is set to make a significant impact on the Indian football scene.
The Brazilian forward began his career in the renowned Brazilian club Botafogo, making a memorable debut in a Copa Sudamericana match against Colombian Independiente Santa Fe, where he netted the equalizing goal, leading to a 1–1 draw.
His journey extended to European football when he joined AS Trenčín in winter 2012–13, signing a three-and-a-half-year contract. After a stint at MŠK Žilina, where he showcased his goal-scoring prowess in Europa League play-off rounds, William Alves explored football in Turkey with Kayserispor.
The subsequent years saw William Alves’ journey span across different footballing landscapes, including stints in the Portuguese Primeira Liga club Chaves, Saudi Football’s First Division club Al-Faisaly, Saudi Professional Club Al-Fayha, and returns to Brazilian clubs such as Coritiba and Ferroviário.
In a significant move, William Alves made his way to Indian football in 2023, signing with Sreenidi Deccan in the I-League. As he dons the colors of the Deccan brigade, the Brazilian forward adds an international flavor to the league, showcasing the global appeal and diversity within Indian football.
FAQ
When will the I-League 2023-24 season Begin?
I-League has started from 28th October 2023.
