ISL 2025-26: Mumbai City FC predicted XI

Mumbai City FC enters this season of ISL with 4 foreign signings

Mumbai City FC head into the ISL 2025–26 season in unfamiliar territory. A wave of departures has left the squad looking thin, and following the exit of City Football Group, the club chose to stay quiet in the transfer market rather than rush into signings.

With no new additions and several regulars moving on, the Islanders are set to rely on a stripped-down group. Only four foreign players remain, Jorge Pereyra Diaz, Jorge Ortiz, Joni Kauko and Nuno Reis, putting added pressure on the core to deliver week after week.

Squad depth is clearly a concern, and rotation could be difficult across a long season.

For Mumbai City, this campaign may be less about dominance and more about survival through organization, discipline and collective effort.

Here is a look at the probable XI Mumbai City FC could field in the ISL 2025-26 season.

Goalkeeper: Phurba Lachenpa

A familiar and trusted presence between the posts, Phurba Lachenpa has been a core part of Mumbai City FC for several seasons.

While his consistency has rarely been questioned, last season was a difficult one, with a few shaky moments carrying into the Super Cup as well. Even so, head coach Peter Kratky continues to back him, and that trust should see Phurba start the season as the first-choice goalkeeper ahead of TP Rehnesh.

Left Back: Akash Mishra

Injuries have kept Akash Mishra on the sidelines for a long time, and he hasn’t been a regular feature in Mumbai City’s lineup in recent seasons.

However, when fit, his experience at the top level and ability to adapt to multiple roles make him a valuable option. If he can stay fit, Akash’s presence could prove decisive in adding balance and stability to the side.

Centre Back: Nuno Reis

The experienced Portuguese defender steps into a leadership role following Tiri’s departure. Nuno Reis brings calmness, organization, and a wealth of experience to the back line, qualities Mumbai City will rely on heavily this season.

With a relatively young defense around him, his maturity and game awareness could be crucial in keeping the side steady through challenging phases.

Centre Back: Bijay Chhetri

At just 24 years old, Bijay Chhetri is entering a crucial phase of his career. The defender recently completed a stint in Uruguay with Colón FC, gaining valuable overseas experience before sealing a move from Chennaiyin FC to Mumbai City FC.

With limited options at the back, Chhetri could be trusted with a significant role this season. The step up brings pressure, but his exposure abroad and fresh start at Mumbai City might just prepare him well for the demands of the league.

Regular minutes alongside experienced defenders could accelerate his growth and help him settle quickly into a bigger responsibility.

Right Back: Valpuia

Valpuia looks set to start at right back under Peter Kratky, a role that highlights his importance to the squad. Reliable defensively and energetic going forward, he offers balance on the flank and adds flexibility to Mumbai City’s setup.

His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch makes him a key piece in a side that will rely heavily on discipline and work rate this season.

Central Midfielder: Brandon Fernandes

With a clear lack of depth and quality in midfield, this area could be a challenge for Mumbai City over the season.

That said, Brandon Fernandes is almost certain to start, simply because he remains the best option available. His experience, composure on the ball, and ability to dictate play add much-needed quality to the middle of the park, making him a vital figure in holding the team together.

Central Midfielder: Joni Kauko

The latest addition of the Finnish midfielder, Joni Kauko will play a very important role for the Islanders. Kauko alongside Brandon will try to make the most of it in the midfield.

Joni Kauko adds experience to an unproven midfield of Mumbai City FC and will be a key figure in the lineup and a sure shot starter.

Mumbai City FC will struggle as the season moves forward as the squad lacks quality in the midfield, any injuries to either Brandon or Joni Kauko can completely ruin Mumbai City FC’s season

Attacking Midfielder: Jorge Ortiz

One of the few proven attacking threats in the squad, Jorge Ortiz brings valuable ISL experience along with goals and creativity from midfield. The Spanish playmaker has the ability to unlock defenses and contribute in the final third, something Mumbai City will rely on heavily this season.

Given his importance and quality, Peter Kratky is almost certain to build the attack around him and start him regularly.

Right Winger: Chhangte

The captain and one of Mumbai City’s most reliable performers, Chhangte brings leadership, raw pace, and directness to the attack. Having served the club for a long time, he understands the system and the expectations better than most.

His work rate and quality on the flank make him a guaranteed starter, and Peter Kratky will once again look to him to lead by example on and off the pitch.

Left Winger: Vikram Pratap Singh

The battle on the left flank could be competitive, with Noufal also pushing for minutes, but experience may tilt the balance.

Vikram Pratap Singh’s greater ISL exposure and understanding of the system give him an edge. His pace and direct running suit Mumbai City’s style, and Peter Kratky is likely to trust him as the starter, especially early in the season.

Centre Forward: Jorge Pereyra Diaz

A proven name in the league, Jorge Pereyra Díaz brings experience, intelligence, and quality to the final third. The Argentine striker is expected to lead Mumbai City’s goalscoring responsibility this season, using his movement and finishing to carry the Islanders’ attack.

With limited attacking depth around him, his form could play a decisive role in how Mumbai City’s campaign unfolds.

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.