The Hero Indian Super League (ISL) has witnessed its most enterprising action in the midfield, spearheaded by some of the most talented players that the country has ever witnessed.
Former Manchester City midfield maestro Elano Blumer has captivated the country with his flair, tricks and a bit of the old Samba magic. In addition to linking the defence and attack for Chennaiyin FC, the Brazilian international has made a name in the goal-scoring department as well, and heads the Golden Boot Award standings with eight goals. He has also displayed his amazing set of skills to pure perfection in set-piece scenarios. His free-kicks are perhaps evidence of his ability to change the game with a single flick of the ball.
Former Liverpool midfielder Luis Garcia has been a pivotal link in Atletico de Kolkata's structure. Garcia has often acted as a creative outlet and delivered accurate through balls for players like Fikru Teferra to capitalize on. In his 11 appearances, Garcia has scored twice and assisted twice. Although his stats may not be jaw-dropping, his unparalleled tactical ability to draw defenders out of their position is perhaps the key to Kolkata’s clinical attacking. Garcia has often been the club’s game-changer and would look to influence results at the business end of the ISL.
Former Arsenal left back Andre Santos has been a revelation for FC Goa. The Brazilian, who specializes in the art of defending, was plucked out of his comfort zone by coach Zico, and deployed in a position where he rarely played - midfield. Weeks into Goa's campaign, Santos has worked wonders for the side in marquee player Robert Pires’ absence. His supreme skills with the ball and overlapping runs off it have often haunted opposition defences. In 10 appearances for Goa, Santos has often acted as a game-changer, scoring four times while assisting thrice.
Considered as one of Indian football's brightest prospects, Goa's Romeo Fernandes has done justice to the tag attached to his name. The fleet-footed winger, who can ply his trade on both flanks, has often been a standout performer for the Goans. His three goals, two assists, nine shots on target and three ‘Hero of the Match’ awards are ample proof of the talent that he possesses. Infused with an ability to take on defenders, beat them at will, and outfox them with a sudden burst of acceleration, Romeo has captivated audience with his charisma and flair.
A product of the Brazilian club Atletico Paranaense, Chennaiyin FC's Bruno Pelissari is a midfielder whose ability with the ball has the audience spellbound in admiration. The youngster announced his arrival in the ISL with a stunning curler goal against Kerala Blasters FC, and has been one of the key players in the Chennaiyin line-up. With four goals to his name and a mammoth 17 shots on target, Pelissari's attacking prowess has been capitalized on perfectly by head coach Marco Materazzi. His deployment behind Jeje Lalpekhlua and Balwant Singh often makes this trio of finishers one of the deadliest in the ISL.