XtraTime Web Desk: Indian Super League has been a platform where along with some captivating local talents, Indian football have seen some extremely consistent foreign players who have been serving in the competition for a long time now. We have picked the top three among them as per our choice.
Raphael Augusto: A gem of a midfielder. Back in 2015, Chennaiyin FC signed Augusto, on loan from Brazilian club Fluminense. Playing under Marco Materazzi, the player progressed gradually, and turned into a key figure in Chennaiyin’s title win.
Augusto is now a key member of Bengaluru FC and going strength to strength every season, setting benchmarks for the youngsters.
Lucian Goian: A terrific defender. Lucian Goian has been a performer who has amassed admirers even from rival clubs. The centre-back’s first stint in the league was with Mumbai City in 2016, after he made a move from Romanian club CFR Cluj. Despite playing 70 games in four seasons, Lucian Goian’s future in India the centre back is only going stronger.
Marcelinho: Marcelinho, first came to India in 2016 as part of Delhi Dynamos. Under the tutelage of Gianluca Zambrotta, the striker scored ten goals in 15 matches and emerged as the top-scorer that season.
Following head coach Phil Brown and most of his teammates, the Brazilian joined newly formed Hyderabad FC, and appeared in 17 matches, scoring seven goals. After a dismal season, Hyderabad is revamping the core of their side under new coach Albert Roca.
Even if the Spanish gaffer decides to let go of the striker, Marcelinho is sure to be approached by other ISL clubs, thereby extending the Brazilian’s stay in India. In four seasons, Marcelinho has scored 31 goals in 63 games, and has undoubtedly become a part of ISL history.