ISL 2025-26: Sporting Club Delhi predicted line up for the upcoming season

The 2025-26 season will be the maiden season for Sporting Club Delhi

Stepping into theIndian Super League is rarely straightforward, but for SC Delhi, the challenge carries an added layer of comparison. Rebranded from Hyderabad FC ahead of the 2025–26 season, the club enters its debut campaign under a new identity while inevitably being measured against its past.

Hyderabad FC were defined by structural discipline, a strong domestic core, and an emphasis on collective organisation over individual stardom. As SC Delhi begin life in the ISL, the question is not whether the club will replicate that success immediately, but how much of that underlying philosophy carries forward into this new chapter.

Early recruitment suggests continuity rather than an entire rupture. Instead of an entire rebuild, SC Delhi retained several familiar profiles while selectively adding Indian Super League experience and a limited number of foreign reinforcements.

For head coach Thomas Tchorz, the opening weeks of the season will be about managing transition as much as results. In that sense, SC Delhi’s starting XI may serve as a bridge between identities, revealing how the club intends to evolve without abandoning the principles that previously showed their success.

Goalkeeper – Nora Fernandes

Nora Fernandes is expected to start between the posts. His experience and command of the penalty area make him a natural choice for a side navigating the early challenges of an ISL debut. For a team likely to face sustained pressure in certain fixtures, reliability in goal will be essential

Right Back – Ashutosh Mehta

At right-back, Ashutosh Mehta appears the most reliable option. His familiarity with ISL-level opposition and positional discipline make him well-suited to a system that prioritises defensive balance. While he can support attacks when required, his primary value lies in timing overlaps selectively and maintaining structure during defensive transitions.

Centre Back – Rafeal Ribeiro

Rafael Ribeiro is likely to occupy the right centre-back role. Signed to add physical presence, Ribeiro’s strength in aerial duels and defensive duels provides SC Delhi with an element of robustness that is often required in the ISL. His role will be to attack first balls and allow the defensive line to hold its shape

Centre Back – Alex Saji

Alongside him, Alex Saji offers familiarity and positional awareness. Saji’s reading of the game complements Ribeiro’s aggression, making him an important stabilising figure. His comfort in maintaining a compact line rather than stepping out aggressively fits the team’s likely conservative defensive approach early in the season

Left back – Manoj Mohammad

On the left side of defence, Manoj Mohammad is a probable starter. His role is expected to be more attacking than focusing on maintaining width defensively and preventing overloads rather than pushing high up the pitch. This allows the left winger ahead of him greater attacking freedom.

Defensive midfield – Abdul Hakku Nediyodath 

In midfield, Abdul Hakku Nediyodath is likely to operate as the deeper of the two central midfielders. His ability to carry the ball forward and progress play through central areas makes him a key link between defence and attack. Haku’s composure under pressure will be essential in helping SC Delhi bypass high pressures.

Defensive Midfield – Mohammed Azhar

Partnering with Haku will be Mohammed Azhar, whose role leans more towards energy and disruption. Mohammed Azhar’s pressing, ball recovery, and willingness to cover ground provide balance to the midfield pairing, allowing Haku greater freedom in possession.

Left winger – Mohammed Aimen

On the left flank, Mohammed Aimen is an emerging Indian footballer known for the space agility and attacking versatility on the field. Primarily operating as a Winger, often on the left wing, he is recognised for the ability to take on defenders, deliver accurate crosses and contribute to goal scoring opportunities.

Right Winger – Ramhlunchhunga

On the right flank, Ramhlunchunga is expected to provide directness and width. His pace and willingness to take on defenders make him a natural outlet on the counter, particularly when SC Delhi look to break quickly from deeper position

Centre Forward – Matija Bobavic

Attacking through the line, the central zone could be occupied by a foreign attacker, most likely Matija Bobavic or another overseas option, depending on tactical needs. Deploying a foreigner in this role adds unpredictability, 1v1 ability, and attacking output from wide areas, especially in matches where SC Delhi need greater penetration.

Second Striker – Joseph Sunny

Attacking through the line, Alan Saji and Joseph Sunny are the two primary central striker options. Either of them could start depending on the opposition and the game plan. While Alan Saji offers physical presence and hold-up play, Joseph Sunny brings pace and direct movement. The choice between the two could dictate whether SC Delhi adopt a more direct or transitional attacking approach.

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