Football has gained much popularity in India, and hence the identification of the best football club in India is an important factor.
It is not simple to find out the most successful football club in India.
It has to be the best by managing to win trophies, but it is also about providing the best performances and nurturing talents that are competitive on a global level.
When choosing the best football club in India, then some factors that will be required include:
First, domestic league performance is the most important factor to be taken into consideration. Hence, a strong contender is a team, that is dominant in the leagues or cups for championships.
Secondly, the teams’ success can also measure the clubs’ worth in continental competitions. Those who participate in regional or international tournaments exhibit their level of the best standard of the sport.
Third, on the quality of players and their training. Therefore, a club that is grooming young talent and at the same time gets the best talents has a higher chance of achieving these objectives in the long run. Fourth, fans and followers make a small difference. Every football club that has loyal and zealous supporters can indeed set the tone for the team and build an incredible atmosphere.
Lastly, it is useful to think about a tradition that the club has built up over the years.
By such criteria, one can also define the best football clubs in India. This article aims to give a brief description of what may be seen as the key attributes of the best football club in India.
Table of Contents
The List of Most Successful Clubs in India
| SL No. | Club Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Mohun Bagan Super Giant |
| 2 | Mumbai City FC |
| 3 | Odisha FC |
| 4 | East Bengal FC |
| 5 | Bengaluru FC |
| 6 | Chennaiyin FC |
| 7 | Hyderabad FC |
| 8 | FC Goa |
| 9 | Jamshedpur FC |
| 10 | North-East FC |
| 11 | Kerala Blasters |
| 12 | Mohamedan SC |
| 13 | Punjab FC |
| 14 | Dempo SC |
| 15 | Churchill Brothers FC |
| 16 | Gokulam Kerala FC |
| 17 | Aizawl FC |
17. Aizawl FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 14.02.1984 |
| Nickname: | The People’s Club |
| Stadium: | Rajiv Gandhi Stadium |
| Stadium Capacity: | 20000 |
| League: | I League |
Aizawl FC is one of the most prominent football clubs in India. It has a dominant force in Indian football. Aizawl FC won the I-League in 2016–17. At the time, it was India’s top-tier football league. They created a memorable moment in Indian football. They already got the runners-up in the Federation Cup in 2015-16.
They have a solid fan base throughout India. In 2018, they qualified for the AFC Cup and AFC Champions League. The team’s style of play is based on possession and attacking football, which has led to some thrilling matches and memorable moments. In the 2023-24 season, they finished in the 10th spot.
Apart from the I-League, Aizawl FC has also won several state-level and regional tournaments, cementing its status as one of the best football clubs in India.
Once upon a time, they are the leading the north-east region race. Now, they are stepped back in the recent years.
In the 2023-24 Ileague season, they finished in the 10th spot, but hope for a new beginning in the 2024-25 season.
“They played with passion, they played with zeal, Aizawl FC, a team that can make you feel.”This line suits them.
16.Gokulam Kerala FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | January 2017 |
| Nickname: | Malabarians |
| Stadium: | EMS Stadium, Malappuram District Sports Complex Stadium |
| Stadium Capacity: | 50000 |
| League: | I League |
“Gokulam Kerala FC, with passion and zeal, On the field, they make opponents kneel.” These lines perfectly suit their football mentality. Gokulam Kerala FC placed seventh out of ten teams in their first season in the I-League, but they had a significant effect thanks to their fast, aggressive brand of football.
They performed better the following year, capturing the Kerala Premier League and placing third in the I-League. Marcus Joseph scored a goal in the Durand Cup final to help Gokulam Kerala FC beat Mohun Bagan by a score of 2-1, making the 2019–20 season a historic one for the team.
In 2020–21 and 2021–22, Gokulam Kerala claimed the I–League title. They have additionally played a significant role in Kerala’s community football development. In the 2023-24 season, they secure the 3rd spot. The team has established schools throughout the state and frequently hosts youth player training camps and competitions.
15. Churchill Brothers FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 1988 |
| Nickname: | The Red Machines |
| Stadium: | Fatorda Stadium / Tilak Maidan Stadium |
| Stadium Capacity: | 19000 / 5000 |
| League: | I League |
Churchill Brothers are one of the most successful football clubs in India. They have won the I-League and IFA shield twice, the Durand cup thrice, the Federation cup, and the local tournaments in their history.
In addition to their domestic success, Churchill Brothers have achieved international success. They reached the quarterfinals of the AFC Cup, the second-tier club competition in Asia, in 2010 and 2014.
Some notable players who have played for Churchill Brothers include Gourmangi Singh, Lenny Rodriguez, Dharmaraj Ravanan, etc. Over time, Churchill Brothers have produced some of India’s top performers. They finished second in the 2021 I-league and fourth in the 2021–22 season.
In the 2023-24 I-league, they finished in the 7th spot and looking forward for this new season.
Their style of play and fan followers should attach this line”We are the pioneers of Indian football, breaking barriers and setting new heights. We are the Churchill Brothers FC, with a legacy as strong as the wind that guides our fights!”.
14. Dempo SC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 1968 |
| Nickname: | Golden Eagles, The Whites |
| Stadium: | Duler Stadium / Ella Academy Ground |
| Stadium Capacity: | 10000 / 500 |
| League: | I League |
The Dempo SC is one of the most successful football clubs in India. Indian football has a long heritage and a plethora of domestic titles. Before the I-league, they won twice in the National Football League.
They took part in the AFC Cup five times, and in 2008, they advanced to the quarterfinals. They played for India’s top football league in the Armando Colaso era. They won the I-league three times, the Federation Cup, Durand Cup, two Super Cups, and numerous other awards.
winning the I -league trophy. (Credit: Facebook)
Also, a significant contributor to the development of Indian football is Dempo SC. The club has a strong youth academy and has produced several notable players like- Mahesh Gawli, Clifford Miranda, Climax Lawrance, etc.
Their current league is the I-second division. A dedicated line for them is “Dempo SC, where the eagles soar high. Our passion for the game never fades as we touch the sky!”.
They are now promoted to the I-league after a long time. Fans are waiting for their success in the I-league.
13.Punjab FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 2005 |
| Nickname: | The Warriors |
| Stadium: | Tau Devi Lal Stadium / Guru Nanak Stadium |
| Stadium Capacity: | 12000 / 30000 |
| League: | I League(up to 2022-23), ISL(From 2023-24) |
Punjab FC(Formerly Minerva Punjab) is one of the best football clubs in India. Minerva Punjab FC produced talented players like Bikash Yumnam, Vikram Pratap Sing, Anwar Ali, and others. They were first-time champions of the I-League in 2017-18.
They competed in the AFC Champions League and AFC Cup in 2019. With RoundGlass, they partnered in 2019.
Their game style and popularity should relate to this line” With the roar of the lion and the spirit of the Punjabi warrior, we enter the fray. RoundGlass Punjab FC, the new force in Indian football, is here to stay!“.
During games, fans can be seen waving flags, banners, and scarves, producing a lively ambiance in the arena.
Punjab was promoted to the ISL the following year after winning the I-league twice. They also quickly captured local football tournaments in India. They quickly established themselves as the best football team in India.
In their inaugural season, they displayed strong performances and secured the 8th spot. Fans are waiting for their new start in the 2024-25 ISL season.
12. Mohammedan SC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 22 February 1891 |
| Nickname: | Black Panthers |
| Stadium: | Kishore Bharati Krirangan / Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan |
| Stadium Capacity: | 12000 / 70000 |
| League: | I League (Up to 2023-24) ISL (2024-25) |
Mohammedan SC (MSC) is one of the best football clubs in India. The team has won multiple titles, including the IFA Shield, the Durand Cup, and the National Football League.
MSC remains a significant force in Indian football despite current financial issues. The team keeps luring in elite talent to help nurture young players. The club has produced many talented players, including legends like Syed Nayeemuddin, Shabbir Ali, and Mohammed Akbar.
They finished second in the I-League and Durand Cup competitions in 2021–22. Despite creating a stir during the Durand Cup 2022, Mumbai City FC defeated Mohammedan SC in the semifinals. In the 2023-24 I-league season they are the champion. As a result, they promoted into the ISL 2024-25.
It is a new hope for the black panthers. Their large amount of fans will happy about their performances.
It has a rich history, and passionate fans make it a beloved institution in Kolkata and beyond. It suits them, “Get ready to witness the magic of Mohammedan SC, where football is more than just a game – it’s a way of life.”
11. Kerala Blasters
Club Profile
| Founded: | 27.05.2014 |
| Nickname: | Manjappada (Yellow Army), The Tuskers |
| Stadium: | Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi, Kerala |
| Stadium Capacity: | 41000 |
| League: | ISL |
One name that always stands out when discussing football clubs in India is Kerala Blasters. A fervent performance and dynamic atmosphere have won the hearts of fans around the country.
Throughout the game, they sing and chant, adding to the intense atmosphere. A dedicated line for them is “Roaring like lions, the Blasters take the field.” “Victory is ours; that’s our shield.”
They are three times runners-up of the ISL. Unfortunately, they still have not cracked the trophy. The team keeps luring in elite talent to help nurture young players. The club has produced many talented players, including Sandesh Jhingan, Sahal Abdul Samad, Jackichand Singh, etc.
The team suffered a controversial loss against Bengaluru in the semifinals of 2022-23 season. In the 2023-24 ISL, they reached in the playoffs.
10.North-East United FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 13.04.2014 |
| Nickname: | The Highlanders |
| Stadium: | Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Guwahati |
| Stadium Capacity: | 21600 |
| League: | ISL |
The North-East United FC is a football club in India, known as the Highlanders and they have a base in Guwahati Assam. The club was formed in 2013 and is based in the city; the team began participating in the ISL in the first season of the league.
The NorthEast United FC team has a relatively low history in the ISL league but has proven itself worthy of a team to be reckoned with. They have come through several successes and challenges in their process.
For instance, the team plays home games at Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium; supporters have demonstrated a lot of passion in cheering for the players most especially during their matches.
Arguably, the club’s main accomplishment was in the 2020-21 ISL season, where it got to the ISL semi-final. Although they have finished third in the league, they also proved what they are capable of achieving and they are a team not to be ignored anymore.
Over time, as the club progresses, the tagline “United for Assam” strikes a chord with the people in the Assamese terrain.
The Highlanders are more than a football team today; it can be regarded as the pride and identity of people in Assam. In the 2024-25 Durand Cup, they clinched the first trophy of their journey to beat Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Final.
Last year, they finished in the 7th spot in the ISL. This year, hopes are high this season in the ISL from the Highlanders.
9. Jamshedpur FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 12th June 2017 |
| Nickname: | The Men of Steel, The Red Miners |
| Stadium: | JRD Tata Sports Complex |
| Stadium Capacity: | 24500 |
| League: | ISL |
Jamshedpur FC is one of the best football clubs in India. It has been a consistent performer in the ISL since its inception. In the 2017-18 season, the club finished fifth in the league table. Jamshedpur FC finished eighth in the league table in the 2019-20 season. In 2021-22, they made a sensation in the ISLand won the league Shield under Owen Coyle.
Jamshedpur FC has a well-balanced squad with a mix of Indian and foreign players. The club has set up football academies in different parts of Jharkhand, which provide training to young footballers.
Red Miners ended their 2023-24 journey in the 10th place. But, this time they can bounce back with a fresh start.
Jamshedpur FC also runs a community development program that focuses on health, education, and gender equality. Lines for the 12th man of the men of steel” where the steel city meets the beautiful game. We forge victories on the field, with grit, sweat, and never yield!”.
8. FC Goa
Club Profile
| Founded: | 26.08.2014 |
| Nickname: | Gaurs |
| Stadium: | Fatorda Stadium, Margao |
| Stadium Capacity: | 19000 |
| League: | ISL |
FC Goa is one of the most consistent professional football clubs in India. They are one of the most successful clubs in the Indian Super League (ISL).
One of the defining characteristics of FC Goa is its attacking style of play, which is based on possession-based football and high press. I dedicated lines for the fans, “We are the young guns of Indian football, determined to make our mark. With fiery passion and skill, we are FC Goa, ready to embark!”.
The club’s philosophy is based on promoting young talent and developing players from its academy. The League Winners’ shield and a runner-up result in the semifinals were FC Goa’s two significant accomplishments during the 2019–20 ISL season.
They were a Super Cup winning club once and two-time ISL runner-ups. In 2021, they won the prestigious Durand cup and performed well in the AFC Champions League. They are the semifinalists of the 2023-24 season.
7. Hyderabad FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 27.08.2019 |
| Nickname: | The Nizams |
| Stadium: | Ganti Mohana Chandra Balayogi Athletic Stadium |
| Stadium Capacity: | 18000 |
| League: | ISL |
Hyderabad Fc has recently hadone of the most successful football clubs in India. They won the ISL title in 2021-22 and finished runners-up twice in the ISL in their short tenure.
The team has several notable players, including Halicharan Narzary, Akash Mishra, Liston Colaco, etc. Hyderabad FC has a strong youth development program and has already produced several talented young players who have represented India at various levels.
Young potential development and promotion are priorities for the team. Despite being a relatively new club, Hyderabad FC has already garnered a strong fanbase. One of the main reasons for the fans’ loyalty to Hyderabad FC is the team’s success on the pitch.
After several successful season, Nizams faced some struggle in the 2023-24 ISL, on & off the pitch. But, they have the potential to bounce back in the 2024-25 season.
The fans of one of the best football clubs in India are a crucial part of the club’s success. A dedicated line for them”As Hyderabad FC takes the field, fans cheer with hearts full of zeal, ready to watch their heroes reveal.”
6. Chennaiyin FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 28.08.2014 |
| Nickname: | Marina Machans |
| Stadium: | Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium |
| Stadium Capacity: | 40000 |
| League: | ISL |
Chennaiyin Fc is possibly among the most famous football clubs in the ISL. They won the ISL twice in the 2015 and 2017-18 seasons and finished as runners-up in the 2019-20 season. The team is known for its attacking style of play.
Through the years, Chennaiyin FC has nurtured some stellar players, such as Jeje, Anirudh Thapa, Thoi Singh, and so on.
In Chennai and all over India, the club has a robust following with its supporters, nicknamed the Supermachans eminent, for their vocal and ardent backing of the team. Dedicated lines for the Merina Machans” Roar loud, Chennaiyin in town, Victory Is ours, we’ll take the crown.
In 2023-24 ISL, Chennaiyin reached in playoffs but could not do well in the playoffs.
Chennaiyin FC is dedicated to supporting grassroots football growth in India in addition to their success on the pitch. This program seeks to find and develop young talent nationally, giving them chances to advance their careers and improve their abilities.
5. Bengaluru FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 20.07.2013 |
| Nickname: | The Blues |
| Stadium: | Sree Kanteerava Stadium |
| Stadium Capacity: | 25810 |
| League: | ISL |
The southern arch-rival of Kerala Blasters is Bengaluru Fc, one of the finest football clubs in India. Since its inception, Bengaluru FC has won several major titles, including the Indian Super League (ISL) in 2018-19 and the I-League in 2013-14 and 2015-16. One of the best clubs in India had also been runners-up in the AFC Cup in 2016 and the Super Cup in 2018. They also won the Federation Cup 2 times, Durand Cup in 2022.
In the 2023-24 ISL season, was not in their favour. They finished in the 10th spot, but they come back in the 204-25 Durand Cup and reached the semifinals. Next, ISL season 11 will be most important season for them. They are the only one team from India that represents India in the AFC Cup Final in the 2016.
Fans beautify the stadium with flags, banners, and scarves while watching their team play. Lines for the Blues “They bring the heat, they bring the fire, Bengaluru FC, the team that inspires”.
Some notable players are Sunil Chhetri, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Udanta Singh, Rahul Bheke, etc. The club’s successes have inspired a new generation of young players and raised awareness of football in India.
4. East Bengal FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 01.08.1920 |
| Nickname: | Red and Gold Brigade, Bangal Brigade |
| Stadium: | Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan |
| Stadium Capacity: | 70000 |
| League: | ISL |
East Bengal is one of the giant football clubs in India, having a remarkable history that dates back over a century. The club has won several honors and has a devoted fan base throughout India.
A dedicated line for them is “Red and gold run in our veins, East Bengal FC is our name. With passion and pride, we play the beautiful game.”
The club has produced some of India’s greatest footballing talents and has consistently been at the forefront of the country’s footballing scene.
Like Mohun Bagan SG, they have also legacy and huge fan base. They represents India in the AFC cup several times and reached in the semifinals in the 2013.
Still today, they have won three times National League champion, eight times Federation Cup champion, sixteen times Durand Cup, and twenty-nine times IFA shields.
They also won the international trophy, Asean Cup Championships in 2003, and two Super Cups. After 12 years, the overcome from the drought of trophy and won the Kalinga Super Cup in 2023.
Because of the winning the Super Cup 2023, they are now in the AFC Challenge League.
The club has produced many legendary players, including Bhaichung Bhutia, Deepak Mondal, Subrata Paul, Manoranjan Bhattacharya, Sudhir Karmakar, etc.
3. Odisha FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 14.10.2014 |
| Nickname: | The Juggernauts The Kalinga Warriors |
| Stadium: | Kalinga Stadium |
| Stadium Capacity: | 15000 |
| League: | ISL |
The Team known as Odisha FC earlier known as Delhi Dynamos FC is one of the most impactful teams in the Indian Football scene since its establishment. Established in the year 2013 the club was initially based in Delhi India but later shifted to Bhubaneswar in the year 2017-18 season.
The shifting of the base to Bhubaneswar formed a new phase in their journey as the state has emerged to be very passionate about football.
Patronized by good trainers and fans, Odisha FC has been giving aplomb performances every season in the Indian Super League (ISL). The team has performed fairly well and has been customs qualifying for playoffs three times. This has been characterized by great events such as stunning fixtures, brilliant displays, and unity.
Among the important moments that have already strengthened Odisha FC’s position, it is possible to highlight the victory in the Super Cup 2023. This win established them as a team that could meet the best and prove its worth on the field. As a result, they played in the AFC Cup in the 2023-24 season and reached the Inter-zone semifinals.
With the journey of the Odisha FC going forward, the club will strive to develop and discover the talent and develop the football in the state. Currently, Odisha FC has a loyal following and a promising future behind it, and the club is preparing to achieve new milestones. They write an impressive chapter in the history of Indian football.
2. Mumbai City FC
Club Profile
| Founded: | 30.08.2014 |
| Nickname: | The Islanders |
| Stadium: | Mumbai Football Arena |
| Stadium Capacity: | 6600 |
| League: | ISL |
The main rival of Mumbai has always been FC Goa. The match between two rival football clubs in India is known as the western derby. Over the years, Mumbai City FC has earned a reputation for playing an aggressive brand of football. But nowadays, Mohun Bagan SG and Mumbai City FC are the most successful clubs in India.
The club has enjoyed success on the field, reaching the ISL playoffs on multiple occasions. Aside from the ISL cup, they also won the premiership twice. They also won a number of local and youth tournaments.
They represents India in the AFC Champions League in the 2023-24. In 2023-24 ISL they are the Cup winner.
Mumbai City FC has several notable players like Diego Forlan, Nicolas Anelka, Amrinder Singh, Bipin Singh, etc. Support for one of the best football clubs in India has increased concurrently with the teams’ triumphs.
The Islanders are passionate supporters who are vocal and excited in the stadium and online. Lines for the Islanders “East or West, Mumbai is the best. We are the Mumbai City FC, and we bring the heat to the football feast!”
1. Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Club Profile
| Founded: | 15.08.1989 |
| Nickname: | The Mariners, Green, and Maroon Brigade |
| Stadium: | Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Mohun Bagan Ground |
| Stadium Capacity: | 70000 |
| League: | ISL |
In 1911 they achieved a terrific feat by beating the British East Yorkshire Regiment in the final of the IFA Shield final and thus became the first Indian team to achieve this great title. With a historic victory that provided feelings of nationalism and pride and shifted the balance of power away from colonial rule.
The arch-rival of East Bengal has always chased Mohun Bagan before 1947. This two clubs are heritage of Indian football. Ever since its formation Mohun Bagan Football Club remained a powerful force in Indian Football.
Mohun Bagan won ISLShield,ISL Cup, three NFLs, two I-leagues, 14 Federation cups, 17 Durand cups, 20 IFA Shields, two Indian Super Leagues, 14 Rovers cups, and many local trophies. They competed in AFC Cups, AFC Champions League, Asian Club Championships, and other competitions.
Because of this, these Mariners have been surrounded by a passionate fan base that contributes greatly to their success. The Mohun Bagan has established itself with tradition, quality, and a culture of nurturing talents from the young.
They finished second in the ISL after merging with ATK in 2020-21. In 2022-23, They are the champions of Hero ISL Cup. In 2023-24 season they won Durand Cup, ISL league Shield and ISL Cup runners-up and compete in the AFC Cup several times.
They are the Durand Cup runners-up and will play in the AFC Champions League 2 in 2024–2025.
They have several notable players like Pritam Kotal, Subhasish Bose, Subrata Bhattacharya, Gostha Pal, Sailen Manna, Chuni Goswami, Jarnail Singh, etc.
The fans of Mohun Bagan create an electrifying atmosphere at the stadium with their chants, songs, and banners. A line for the mariners”Green and Maroon unite, as one team we fight. We are Mohun Bagan, champions in sight!”
Last Words
Football clubs in India have been making significant investments in projects aimed to foster young talent and raise the sport’s general standard in the nation. However, it has struggled to gain widespread popularity in the country, where cricket dominates the sports scene.
Despite this, there are several football clubs in India, both at the professional and amateur levels. Football in India may witness a surge in popularity and success due to the worldwide expansion of the sport.
These are our best 15 football clubs in India, but there are many more great clubs in India that you can support.
I admire your reading perseverance. In the future, I’ll try to go into more detail about this and give you something new. If you enjoy reading it, be sure to follow Sports Dribble on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
My name is Krishanu Das the founder of the Sports Dribble.
I am Accountant by profession but a Sports Blogger by passion.
I am passionate about sharing my all knowledge and experiences of sports, with my readers and every sports enthusiast.
