Mailson Alves

Mailson Alves

This Brazilian defender was pretty good at Chennaiyin FC last year. The eventual champions didn't have the best of starts and lost the first two games. But they turned things around by winning the next two games, that were away from home against two tough opponents. And a big part of that accomplishment was that they kept clean sheets.

Mailson played a big part during that process, stopping opponent attacks and providing a safe base while the attackers led the team's revival with some spectacular high-scoring wins, resulting in Chennaiyin having the highest goal difference in the regular season.

Having him in the team gives NEUFC a go-to defensive anchor and the means to be a little extra ambitious with their midfield if push comes to shove. Definitely one of the top five steals from other teams this year.