I-League 2024-25 preview: Teams, coaches, and what to expect this season

The 18th edition of the I-League is set to kick off on Friday, November 22, with 12 clubs vying for glory and the chance to secure promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL).

After an exciting 2023-24 season where Mohammedan Sporting triumphed and moved up to the ISL, this year promises to deliver another fiercely competitive campaign.

Among the clubs to watch is Sporting Club Bengaluru, who stormed into the I-League after dominating the I-League 2 last season.

Joining them are Dempo SC, the five-time national champions making a much-anticipated return to the league after nine years.

Established names like Gokulam Kerala and Sreenidi Deccan are back, with both teams determined to claim the crown after falling short in recent seasons.

Delhi FC enters their sophomore season, building on a strong debut, while Inter Kashi, led by the experienced Antonio López Habas, is keen to improve on their impressive fourth-place finish last year.

Real Kashmir, with their formidable home record, will again be a tough challenge for any visitor, and Shillong Lajong hopes to bring joy to the Northeast with an improved showing.

Churchill Brothers FC Goa and Aizawl FC, both former champions, are aiming to relive their glory days, while Rajasthan United and Namdhari FC will look to turn their fortunes around after difficult campaigns.

Sreenidi Deccan, runners-up for the past two seasons, have retained key players and added fresh talent, signaling their intent to finally clinch the elusive title.

Meanwhile, Sporting Club Bengaluru’s meteoric rise and Rajasthan United’s youthful squad promise to add an extra layer of intrigue to the competition.

What to expect this season?

This season promises a fierce competition, with several clubs entering as strong contenders.

Sreenidi Deccan, after consecutive runner-up finishes, will be eager to claim their first title under new coach Rui Amorim.

Gokulam Kerala, two-time champions, remain a powerhouse with their balanced squad and experienced leadership. Inter Kashi, led by the veteran Antonio López Habas, and Real Kashmir, known for their fortress-like home ground, are also expected to make serious title bids.

New entrants Sporting Club Bengaluru and returning giants Dempo SC bring unpredictability and excitement, adding to the mix. While favorites emerge, the league’s competitive nature ensures surprises, making it difficult to predict a clear winner.

I-League 2024-25: Clubs and Head Coaches

1. Aizawl FC – Victor Lalbiakmawia (India)

2. Churchill Brothers FC Goa – Dimitris Dimitriou (Cyprus)

3. Delhi FC – Yan Law (India)

4. Dempo SC – Samir Naik (India)

5. Gokulam Kerala FC – Antonio Rueda (Spain)

6. Inter Kashi – Antonio López Habas (Spain)

7. Namdhari FC – Fernando Capobianco (Argentina)

8. Rajasthan United FC – Walter Caprile (Uruguay)

9. Real Kashmir FC – Ishfaq Ahmed (India)

10. Shillong Lajong FC – José Hevia (Spain)

11. Sporting Club Bengaluru – Chinta Chandrasekhar Rao (India)

12. Sreenidi Deccan FC – Rui Amorim (Portugal)

These coaches will lead their teams through a fiercely competitive season, each aiming to outshine the rest and claim the I-League trophy.

As the season unfolds, fans can expect thrilling matches, top-quality performances, and fierce rivalries. The I-League continues to be a vital part of Indian football, where tradition meets opportunity, and this season is set to be no different.