Kerala Blasters
No club has sustained more problems than Kerala Blasters this season. Known for their fearless attacking approach, ability to hurt teams on the break and their fan base, the Yellow Army has failed to live up to expectations.
From their fans' frustration to the sacking of the beloved David James, from their defensive disorganization to reports that suggest key first team stars could be on the move, nothing has gone Kerala's way.
A cloud of uncertainty over various issues hovers over their heads, as a 6-1 beating at the hands of Mumbai just before the break made you think, "What now for the Kerala Blasters?"
They have been poor in all departments and from here, it's just the question of pride.
FC Pune City
Firstly, to be where they are despite having undergone a major transition, FC Pune City deserve a bow. With just three wins and a couple of draws from 12 games, they are on 7th place in the table.
However, this is not it. After just three games in charge of the Stallions, former Real Madrid Technical Director Miguel Angel Portugal was shown the door, leaving behind a sense of disharmony and big loopholes.
In came Pradhyum Reddy, who steadied the ship to a narrow extent, and he too, was relieved of his duties. Former Bolton Wanderers star Phil Brown has taken over the hot seat and has done a reasonably good job.
Owing to their stubborn nature at the back and a few goals, Pune have fought their way back with two wins on the bounce. Although their chances to reach the top 4 seem slimmer than ever, a few wins here and there will boost their morale and end the season on a high.