The second season of the Hero ISL is just around the corner. It was only last year the ISL was started by Reliance IMG and Star India. Supported by Nita Ambani and along with the Bollywood stars, the ISL has become the second most crowd-pulling sports event in India after cricket's Indian Premier League; and with 61 matches to be played around 70 days, the second season looks promising.
The franchises have made several changes to their squads. Rino Anto has been brought in by Atletico De Kolkata for a staggering 90 amount, along with Helder Postiga and Iain Hume as they look to defend their crown. Lucio has been signed up by FC Goa as their manager Zico looks to turn them into title contenders this season, after a disappointing first season. Simao Sabrosa, the ex-Barcelona winger, who is well known for his sheer pace, has been recruited by North-East United FC as they look to bounce back from the bottom of the table finish last season.
Carlos Marchena has been signed by Kerala, the Spanish defender who was a regular in the National team from 2002 to 2011 and has won the La Liga twice, as the runners-up of last year look to go one step further this time. Nicolas Anelka has been appointed as the manager-cum-marquee player for Mumbai City FC. Only time will tell if the former Real Madrid and Chelsea striker can take MCFC to new heights. Adrian Mutu is another Premier League star who has been roped in by FC Pune City.
The most promising changes have been at Delhi Dynamos, as they have appointed Roberto Carlos as their manager-cum-marquee player, replacing Del Piero. The legendary Brazilian defender has company with the likes of Florent Malouda and John Arne Riise in the ranks.
The Dynamos have been in their hometown, allowing their players to get used to their surroundings and make them feel home. The other seven teams opted to go abroad and practice for the new season, as stakes are high and there is no margin for error.
The fans are eagerly waiting for the season to start on October 3, with the season opener being a blockbuster fixture, as Chennaiyin FC host Atletico De Kolkata. The reigning champions kick off their defence against one of the most formidable teams in the league.
