I-League 2018-19: Best XI of the season

Defenders

Borja Gomez Perez was roped in by East Bengal prior to the start of the season

Edwin Venspaul (Chennai City FC)

Chennai City FC has been the surprise package of the I-League this season. Apart from the contributions from the foreign recruits, the local talents have also been responsible for the favourable outcome.

Edwin Venspaul is one such player who has emerged as of the most effective emerging footballer in the ongoing season. His contributions were invaluable to Chennai City FC’s title hunt; he has a bright future ahead!

Borja Gomez Perez (East Bengal)

Borja Gomez Perez has provided stability in the defence for East Bengal since his arrival. Along with Johnny Acosta, the two central defenders have hardly let the opposition to penetrate through and take a shot at goal.

The Spaniard has been exceptional with aerial balls, cleared dangerous balls with ease and has done his other duties with perfection. It will be harsh in them if they do not manage to win the I-League.

Gourav Bora (Chennai City FC)

After being roped in by ISL outfits FC Pune City, Gourav was loaned to Chennai City FC, which might have been a turning point in his career.

Akbar Nawas showed faith in the young stopper and he was not disappointed. The footballer from Assam has been phenomenal at the back, provided the much-needed support to Spanish defender Roberto Eslava. Bora has been one of the emerging players in this years I-League.

Manoj Mohammed (East Bengal)

The side-back was not a part of East Bengal’s Calcutta Football League squad. Spanish gaffer Alejandro Menendez included him in the senior team just before the 2018-19 I-League season kicked-off.

Having made his debut for the red and gold brigade against NEROCA FC, he impressed as a side-back, even though his normal playing position was as a centre back. Since then, he was a regular in the starting XI.