ISL: Top 5 Atletico de Kolkata players to watch out for

Atletico de Kolkata are raring to go again after winning the inaugural season of the Indian Super League. The Kolkata outfit have rebuilt their squad with younger foreign players and big names in Indian football although everyone was surprised when they decided not to retain their captain Luis Garcia, who also won the “Most exciting player of the league” award. Another former Champions League winner with Liverpool Josemi will take over the armband from Luis Garcia.We take a look at the top 5 players who might shine for Atletico de Kolkata this season and help them defend the league title.

#5 Arnab Mondal

Together with Josemi, Indian international Arnab Mondal was ever present in Atletico de Kolkata’s defence last season. His performances even impressed national team boss Stephen Constantine and he has been a regular starter in the recent games.

The 26-year-old is still learning the craft, but he has been a nightmare for attackers in the league as they found it difficult to get the better of him. Time and time again Mondal has come to Atletico de Kolkata’s rescue and has been there as a defensive wall for them.

Mondal, who made 38 tackles in the league last season, will once again partner with skipper Josemi and it will be interesting to see if they can keep the amazing partnership going. Atletico boss Antonio Habas relied on his defenders to win them the league last season, and he will be hoping they turn up once again.

#4 Borja Fernandez

Former Real Madrid player and defensive midfielder Borja Fernandez announced himself with a stunning goal against Mumbai City FC in the opening fixture of the Indian Super League last season. Borja formed an exemplary partnership with Botswana international Ofentse Nato in the heart of Atletico de Kolkata’s midfield.

He recorded a total of 63 tackles last season, which was highest in the league. Borja’s brilliant performances for Atletico even earned him a six-month contract with La Liga side Eibar, and he made 16 appearances for them scoring one goal. He also played for La Liga sides Getafe, Deportivo La Coruña, Real Valladolid, and Mallorca before joining Atletico de Kolkata last season, and has valuable experience that might prove to be crucial once again.

Borja will be Atletico de Kolkata’s most important player in the midfield, and Antonio Habas will be hoping he keeps his good form going.

#3 Iain Hume

Canadian star Iain Hume, who was awarded as the 'ISL Best Foreign Player' in the FPAI awards. managed to score 5 goals for Kerala Blasters last season, only behind Chennaiyin FC’s Elano Blumer. Hume is a workhorse on the pitch and is always looking to help his team.

He had three assists to his name last season, which was the second highest in the league. The 31-year-old also had the second highest number of shots on target, and was fouled more than any other player in the league last season.

Atletico de Kolkata boss Antonio Habas will want Hume to produce similar performances for his new club and form a partnership with Helder Postiga up top. Hume last played for League Two side Tranmere Rovers in England, where he failed to score a single goal in 12 appearances, and was released at the end of the season.

#2 Josemi

Josemi was rock solid for Atletico de Kolkata as they conceded just 13 goals in 17 games – less than a goal per game – the lowest in the league. He had 46 tackles to his name last season, which was the fourth highest in the league.

The 35-year-old has formed a commendable partnership with Arnab Mondal at the back and made life difficult for opponents. Antonio Habas has rewarded Josemi for his fine form and he has been given the captain's armband this season.

The Spanaird was also available throughout the tournament and didn't miss a single game even in difficult conditions. Josemi, who is already a Champions League winner with Liverpool, will be hoping to add another Indian Super League winners medal to his name.

#1 Helder Postiga

Helder Postiga is possibly the best striker in the league and a lot is expected from Atletico de Kolkata’s marquee signing who replaces fans favourite Luis Garcia. The Portuguese international has all the ingredients to be a massive success in the league.

The former Porto, Valencia, Lazio and Sporting Lisbon striker comes with a lot of experience, and one might wonder if Postiga made the switch to the Indian Super League a bit too soon. The 33-year-old has 27 goals in 71 international games to his name and has featured in 448 club games for various top clubs in Europe.

A lot is expected from Postiga, and his partnership on the pitch with Iain Hume might be a treat to watch this season in the league. The only concern for Habas might be the lack of goals for his last club Deportivo in the La Liga, where he scored just two goals in 16 appearances in all competitions.