ISL: Three Indian players NorthEast United should sign ahead of 2023-24 season

NorthEast United FC finished at the bottom of the ISL 2022-23 table

Following the conclusion of last season, NorthEast United have undergone a significant restructuring phase, parting ways with 13 players. The departure list includes notable names such as Imran Khan, Arindam Bhattacharya, Gurjinder Kumar, Provat Lakra, Mashoor Shereef, Alex Saji, Aaron Evans, Sehnaj Singh, Kule Mbombo, Joseba Beitia, Wilmar Gil, Alisher Kholmurodov, and Laldanmawia Ralt.

While this exodus represents a considerable loss in terms of experience and talent, the club now faces the challenge of rebuilding their squad for the upcoming season.

Notably, among the departing players, Wilmar Gil stood out as the team's most prolific performer during the previous campaign. Scoring an impressive eight goals in just 11 matches, his absence will undoubtedly leave a void in NorthEast United's attacking prowess. In total, the players who are leaving accounted for a combined 97 appearances last season, further highlighting the significant overhaul that the club is currently undergoing.

As the Indian Super League side looks forward to the upcoming season, the club's management and coaching staff must now focus on identifying suitable replacements to reinforce their roster.

With a particular emphasis on strengthening their Indian contingent, let's explore three Indian players who could potentially fill the void left by the departing individuals and contribute to the team's success in the coming season.

1. Kiyan Nassiri

NorthEast United FC should consider targeting Kiyan Nassiri, the talented young striker from Mohun Bagan. Nassiri has displayed immense promise whenever given the opportunity, with a notable highlight being his hat trick after coming on as a substitute against East Bengal. However, with limited game time, having started only two matches last season, the striker would undoubtedly be seeking more playing opportunities.

Considering NorthEast United's need to bolster their goal-scoring capabilities after losing Wilmar Gil, Nassiri's potential and hunger to prove himself could make him a valuable addition to the team. By providing him with regular game time and a supportive environment, the Indian Super League might witness Nassiri's talent flourish and contribute significantly to their goal-scoring efforts.

2.

The acquisition of Ritwik Das by NorthEast United FC would undoubtedly be a statement signing, addressing their dire need for goals from midfield. The team's lacklustre midfield performance last season, managing only three goals collectively, highlighted the urgency for a dynamic goal-scoring presence. In contrast, Ritwik showcased his exceptional goal-scoring prowess by finding the back of the net six times in just 18 matches for Jamshedpur FC. Such a significant contribution from the midfield cannot be overlooked.

By bringing Ritwik on board, the club would make a resounding statement, demonstrating their intent to rectify their goal-scoring deficiencies and enhance their attacking threat from midfield. His ability to consistently score goals would add a new dimension to the team's style of play and provide a much-needed boost to their goal-scoring potential. Ritwik's arrival would not only strengthen the squad but also send a message to their rivals that NorthEast United are committed to being a formidable force in the upcoming season.

3. Jayesh Rane

Jayesh Rane, the experienced midfielder, will be eager to secure a move that offers him more playing time. Despite being a reliable player, Rane faced difficulties getting sufficient minutes on the pitch last season, starting only two matches out of eight. NorthEast United, recognising the underperformance of their midfield in the previous season, would benefit from adding Rane's experience to their squad.

With Rane's proficiency and ability to make a positive impact in midfield, his signing would bring much-needed stability and composure to North East United's midfield unit. His experience and understanding of the game would contribute to improving the team's overall performance.

Additionally, Rane's presence would provide valuable leadership qualities and help guide the younger players in the squad. NorthEast United's pursuit of Rane is a testament to their intention to strengthen their midfield and address the shortcomings of the previous campaign.