An exciting season of the ISL has come to a conclusion with Mumbai City FC winning their first ever title. This was the first edition to feature 11 teams and it brought a spectacle over 115 matches. Lots of players have stood out in the group stages, both Indian and foreign players. Here we take a look at the top five foreign defensive midfielders who had a good season contributing to the success of their team.
5. Edu Bedia – FC Goa
The Spanish midfielder’s contribution to FC Goa in generating the play from the deep was commendable and useful in their run into the playoffs. A part of the Goan side since 2017, Edu Bedia took up a deeper role in the pitch this time around. His ability to control the pace of attack helped them to create chances from the back. He spent a large time on the ball, taking 1747 touches overall this season, playing 1496 passes which was the highest by anyone in the league. He was also influential in set pieces with his crosses from free kicks and corners. He had 3 assists and everytime he plays he sets the tone of the team’s play.
FC Goa has showcased attacking football at its finest with prominent goalscorers like Igor Angulo and Jorge Ortiz Mendoza. And we can’t forget the cameo performances of Ishan Pandita either. But Edu deserves credit for the work rate he puts in. Apart from creating chances, he has 35 interceptions, and has cemented his place very well at the holding midfield position. Edu Bedia’s contract with FC Goa runs till 2022, so with a good season this time he is expected that he plays out his contract with the team. Safe to say, he forms the spine of the team and with good combination with his co-midfielders like Alberto Noguera, FC Goa has been able to provide good performances time and again.