Juan Pedro Benali pens open letter to NorthEast United loyals

NorthEast United showed signs of revival under Juan Pedro Benali but are currently struggling in the ISL.

Indian Super League outfit NorthEast United FC have displayed some high-spirited approach on the field but struggled to secure three points from a game on several occasions. In the ongoing season of the Indian Super League, the Highlanders have played 11 games so far out of which, they were only able to bag those three points twice. The first occasion was when they faced Chennaiyin FC at home and the second time it was when they faced Jamshedpur FC in gameweek five.

In their last six games, they have lost three while the other three ended in a stalemate. The Highlanders will be playing their last game of the year on 29 December, where they will host title contenders FC Goa at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati.

Before taking the field on Friday, NorthEast United FC boss Juan Pedro Benali sent out a heartfelt letter to all the supporters who have always been by the team’s side even when they couldn’t make it worthwhile.

The letter from Juan Pedro Benali

”I hope this letter finds you well and in good spirits. As we navigate through the highs and lows of this season, it has been a journey of growth and development for the club. One of the core principles we are embracing is the trust we place in our young players. This is what Northeast United FC is all about – building a squad that evolves into greatness not just this season but becomes even better in the seasons to come, eventually emerging as a top team in the future.

In a world that often demands instant results, I urge you, our dedicated supporters, to be patient with us. Things do not change overnight, and the process we are undertaking requires time. The young ones will make mistakes but as fans we need you to stand by them and support them.

We want to be transparent with you – if we have a bad game, we will openly admit it. We don’t hide, and we are committed to learning and growing from every experience.

It’s true, you can sign expensive players from other clubs, but the essence of a team lies in its core. Trusting our youngsters is a deliberate choice because when you believe in them, they give more than 100% to the fans and the team. This is the foundation we are building – a team that fights with passion and determination for the colours they wear.

I am reminded of a quote by the legendary Michael Jordan: “I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” Let this serve as a reminder that setbacks and failures are an integral part of the journey to success.

Whether the team is playing well or facing challenges, your support makes a significant impact. We need you at the stadium, pushing us hard, and cheering for us because you are the heartbeat of this football club.

We represent the entire Northeast region, proudly standing as the only football club representing eight states. We don’t take this responsibility lightly, and we understand the magnitude of your expectations. Let’s continue this journey together, embracing the challenges, celebrating the victories, and growing stronger as one united family.”

The gaffer penned the closing of the letter by extending his gratitude to the supporters of NorthEast United FC.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.