ISL 2025-26: NorthEast United FC Predicted XI

Alaeddine Ajaraie was loaned out by NorthEast United FC earlier

NorthEast United FC head into the Indian Super League 2025-26 season banking on stability rather than fresh faces. The club mutually parted ways with Chema Nunez ahead of the campaign, while forward Alaeddine Ajaraie has been loaned out to Indonesia.

Interestingly, the Highlanders chose not to make any signings during the transfer window.

Juan Pedro Benali remains in charge, with the core of last season’s squad staying intact. The idea is clear, to build chemistry, improve consistency and get more out of a group that already understands the system.

With only three foreign players in the squad, Michel Zabaco, Andy Rodríguez and Jairo Samperio, much will depend on tactical discipline and how well the existing players step up. Here is a look at the probable XI NorthEast United FC could field in the ISL 2025-26 season.

Goalkeeper: Gurmeet Singh Chahal

Gurmeet Singh is expected to be the first name on the team sheet for NorthEast United FC. The custodian has consistently delivered solid numbers between the sticks and has grown into a dependable presence at the back.

His back-to-back Durand Cup triumphs with the Highlanders underline both his quality and big-game temperament. Calm, commanding and reliable, Gurmeet offers much-needed security in front of goal and sets the tone for the defense ahead of him.

Left Back- Buanthanglun Samte

Samte has quickly established himself as a key pillar in NorthEast United FC’s backline. The young left-back brings plenty of energy and creativity down the flank, often contributing in advanced areas with his forward runs and delivery.

His ball recovery and work rate stand out, helping the team regain possession high up the pitch. While there are moments where his defensive positioning can improve, Samte’s overall impact at both ends of the field makes him one of the most exciting young full backs in the squad.

Centre Back- Michel Zabaco

The experienced Michel Zabaco remains the heartbeat of NorthEast United FC’s defense. Now into his third season with the club, the skipper has been a constant figure through one of the most successful phases in the Highlanders’ history.

Zabaco brings leadership, maturity and composure to the backline, organizing those around him with clarity. Strong in the air and sharp with his defensive positioning, he provides a sense of assurance at the heart of defense and will be keen to continue his reliable partnership with fellow Centre-back Asheer Akhtar.

Centre Back- Asheer Akhtar

Asheer Akhtar has emerged as one of the most impactful defenders in NorthEast United FC’s history. A model of consistency at the back, his understanding with Michel Zabaco has been central to the team’s defensive solidity.

The duo compliments each other perfectly, bringing balance, discipline and calm to the heart of defense. Asheer’s presence adds much-needed stability, making him a crucial figure in maintaining structure and resilience across the backline.

Right Back- Redeem Tlang

Redeem Tlang’s fortunes took a remarkable turn after head coach Juan Pedro Benali redefined his role as a right-back. Previously deployed higher up the pitch as a winger, the switch has breathed new life into his career.

Embracing the added defensive responsibility, Redeem has grown into a consistent starter for the Highlanders, offering pace, balance and energy down the flank. His transformation has not only stabilized the right side of defense but also allowed him to contribute massively at both ends of the pitch.

Defensive Midfielder- Andy Rodriguez

Andy Rodriguez has been a hugely influential presence in the heart of NorthEast United FC’s midfield. Naturally a central midfielder, he has adapted impressively to the deeper, holding role when required by the team.

His game intelligence and physical presence allow the Highlanders to dominate central areas, while his reading of play helps break up opposition attacks.

In doing so, Rodriguez has seamlessly filled the void left by Mohammed Ali Bemammer, providing much-needed balance and control in the middle of the park.

Also Read: ISL 2025-26: Full fixtures list of Northeast United FC

Defensive Midfielder- Mayakkannan Muthu

Partnering Andy Rodriguez in midfield, Maya is expected to operate in a deeper role to provide cover and structure. His positional discipline allows Rodríguez the freedom to step forward and influence play more centrally when required.

By sitting back and shielding the defense, Maya helps maintain balance in the middle of the park, ensuring NorthEast United FC remain compact while transitioning between defense and attack.

Central Midfielder- Macarton Louis Nickson

Operating as a No. 8, Macarton brings creativity and control to NorthEast United FC’s midfield. A superb ball-playing midfielder, he helps the team transition quickly from defense to attack with his passing and movement.

In attacking phases, he pushes higher up the pitch, often arriving at the edge of the penalty box as a shooting option. His energy and intelligence make him a key link between midfield and attack.

Right Winger- Jairo Samperio

Following the departure of Alaeddine Ajaraie, Jairo Samperio is expected to slot straight in as the starting winger for NorthEast United FC. Vastly experienced, the Spaniard has featured in top competitions such as LaLiga, the Bundesliga, and the UEFA Europa League.

He brings pace, sharp movement and a proven eye for goal to the frontline. As the only foreign option in attack, Samperio adds a layer of reliability and composure, while his versatility allows him to operate centrally as a No. 9 when required.

Left Winger- Jithin M.S

Jithin has been one of the biggest success stories under Juan Pedro Benali. The winger has developed rapidly into a key attacking outlet, bringing raw pace and aggressive, almost unstoppable dribbling to NorthEast United FC’s frontline.

Crucial to the team over the past two seasons, he thrives in transition, making constant runs in behind and stretching defenses on the counter. His directness and work rate make him a vital weapon, especially when the Highlanders look to attack at speed.

Centre Forward- Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia

Rinzuala is expected to lead the line for NorthEast United FC, starting ahead of Parthib Gogoi following the latter’s inconsistent form. Although he hasn’t enjoyed extended minutes so far, his pedigree speaks for itself.

With an impressive record of 27 goals in 37 I-League appearances, Rinzuala brings proven finishing quality to the frontline. The Highlanders will be hoping he can translate that form to the ISL stage, seize his opportunity, and add a cutting edge to their attack.

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