Indian football is facing one of its most uncertain phases in recent history. With no competitive football and no clear roadmap for the Indian Super League (ISL), several high-profile foreign players who once defined the league’s identity are now leaving India in search of stability, continuity, and better opportunities abroad.
These exits aren’t just regular transfers. It reflects deeper structural concerns around league scheduling, governance, and long-term planning in Indian football.
Faces of the League Have Begun to Depart
Few players symbolise the rise of the ISL more than Roy Krishna. After six remarkable years in India, the Fijian striker has left with 100+ goal contributions across all competitions, becoming one of the most influential foreign players in Indian football history. His move back to Bula FC (Fiji) marks the end of an era.
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Equally significant is the departure of Tiri, a player who has shown consistency and leadership every season. After 11 years in India and 150+ ISL appearances, Tiri leaves as the most capped foreign player in ISL history, setting a benchmark that may stand for years.
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Kerala Blasters Lose Their Identity
For Kerala Blasters FC and their fans, the exits are deeply emotional. Adrian Luna and Noah Sadaoui were not just players, they were the face of the club and among the most significant faces in the league.
Luna’s creativity and leadership defined an entire era for the Blasters.
Sadaoui’s flair and match-winning ability made him a fan favourite across India.
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Both have now moved abroad, with Adrian Luna rumored to join Persib Kediri (Indonesia) on a loan move and Noah Sadaoui rumored to join Dewa United (Indonesia), highlighting how neighbouring leagues are capitalising on ISL’s uncertainty.
The Spanish Connection Comes to an End
The Spanish duo of Javier Siverio and Borja Herrera also bid farewell after more than three years in India.
Having played together for Hyderabad FC, East Bengal FC, and most recently FC Goa, they represented technical quality and tactical intelligence within the league.
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Siverio is rumoured to join Ethnikos Achnas (Cyprus), while Borja Herrera has joined Persijap Jepara (Indonesia), another reminder that Asian leagues are offering clarity and competitive football that India currently cannot.
More Exits Signal a Worrying Trend
The list does not stop there. Several other foreign players have already left India to secure regular football elsewhere:
- Greg Stewart → Cove Rangers FC (Scotland)
- Connor Shields → PKR Svay Rieng FC (Cambodia)
- Tiago Mendes → Abroad (from Kerala Blasters FC)
- Hamid Ahadad → Abroad (from East Bengal FC)
These are players who added depth, professionalism, and international experience to the ISL ecosystem.
Uncertainty Is Driving the Exodus
The common factor behind these exits is clear. With no confirmed competitive calendar, no clarity on the ISL’s future, and prolonged administrative silence, foreign players cannot afford to wait.
Football careers are short. In the absence of matches, exposure, and financial security, players are choosing leagues in Indonesia, Cambodia, Cyprus, Scotland etc. where structures are defined and seasons are guaranteed.
Conclusion
Fans, players, coaches, staff members and clubs are all waiting in frustration for Indian football to resume in a structured and sustainable manner. If the uncertainty continues, retaining quality players will become increasingly difficult for ISL clubs.
Some clubs are already facing serious financial and operational dilemmas, with a few even on the verge of shutdown if the situation drags on further. For the sake of Indian football’s credibility and future growth, clarity and action are no longer optional; they are essential.
