A look at Bengaluru FC's foreign contingent for ISL 2026-27
The Blues have recruited five foreign signings this summer.
The West Block Blues will be mighty excited as fresh faces and enthusiasm have seeped in ahead of the 2026-27 Indian Super League (ISL) season.
Bengaluru FC have been busy this summer with rebuilding their overseas contingent and has brought in a blend of European experience, South American know-how and attacking versatility.
Coach Pep Muñoz has brought in five foreign players in the transfer window to add quality and experience in what could be a very special campaign for the Blues.
While Bengaluru FC has lost a lot of their familiar faces, fans will be hoping these five additions address key areas of the squad, by complimenting the defence, midfield and attacking departments in the upcoming ISL season.
It’s been a few seasons since Bengaluru FC edged closer to the ISL title. After a disappointing and miserable campaign in the 2025-26 season, the Blues will be aiming to close the gap towards the top of the standings next term.
Bengaluru FC’s Foreign Players 2026-27
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Borja MartĂnez
The Spaniard, Borja Martinez became head coach Muñoz and the Blues’ first foreign signing of the 2026 summer window on a one-year deal. The 32-year-old Spaniard has considerable experience in Spanish football, and his versatility to operate across several attacking positions will be an asset for the ISL side.
Working under Muñoz, the Spanish winger has the opportunity to emulate and even become a cult figure at the club, like some of his compatriots, with his performances this upcoming season. Martinez’s adeptness from dead-ball situations will be another weapon that could prove valuable for Bengaluru FC against tricky opposition.
- Age: 32
- Country of Birth: Spain
- Position: LW
- Preferred Foot: Left
- Played for: RCD Espanyol, Elche CF, Ibiza
Sandro EmbalĂł
The Portuguese has been recruited by Munoz with an aim towards strengthening Bengaluru’s defensive unit, which has been an Achilles’ heel in recent seasons. The 30-year-old centre-back has also joined on a deal running until the end of the 2026-27 season and could be a game-changing signing.
The defender’s physicality and experience at the back is expected to provide greater depth and stability to a defensive line which has been a cause for concern for several West Block Blue fans over the years.
- Age: 30
- Country of Birth: Portugal
- Position: CB
- Preferred Foot: Left
- Played for: Sporting CP, ATM Madrid Youth
Also Read: ISL 2026-27: Foreign contingents of all Indian Super League clubs
Manuel de Iriondo
Arguably the most intriguing and exciting signing of the summer is Argentine midfielder Manuel de Iriondo. A veteran midfielder who has enjoyed a career spanning South America and Europe, BFC have signed a midfield general that fans will potentially grow to love with each passing week.
The 33-year-old is a technically sound and composed midfielder, and coach Munoz will deploy de Iriondo as an anchor in midfield. The Argentine reads the game well and can dictate tempo and cover ground and break the lines if needed during the season.
- Age: 33
- Country of Birth: Argentina
- Position: CDM
- Preferred Foot: Right
- Played for: Olimpo, Grenoble
Also Read: ISL 2026-27: Foreign contingents of all Indian Super League clubs
Menno Koch
Former PSV Eindhoven centre-back Menno Koch brings arguably the most recognizable European pedigree to Bengaluru’s defence.
A product of the Dutch club’s academy, Koch has played for several top Eredivisie clubs like PSV, NAC Breda, FC Utrecht, KAS Eupen, CSKA Sofia and Sarpsborg 08 in his career.
The 32-year-old will not be fazed by any attacker and sees the move to India as a unique and exciting challenge. Koch’s experience and leadership could be particularly important in the BFC defence as Munoz looks to field a strong push for winning the ISL title in this upcoming campaign.
- Age: 32
- Country of Birth: Netherlands
- Position: CB
- Preferred Foot: Right
- Played for: PSV, NAC Breda
Mihailo Perović
Completing the foreign contingent is Montenegrin forward Mihailo Perović, who provides Bengaluru with an experienced central attacking option. While the Blues already have Sunil Chhetri, Perovic’s presence gives Muñoz another focal point in the final third and adds variety to the Blues’ attacking setup.
The Montenegro forward also helps Munoz rest the Indian legend for key games and even potentially allow Chhetri to be deployed as a second striker.
- Age: 29
- Country of Birth: Podgorica
- Position: CF
- Preferred Foot: Right
- Played for: Persebaya, FK Iskra
Note: This article will be updated once Bengaluru FC announce their complete roster for 2026-27 season….!
How many foreign players have Bengaluru FC signed for the 2026-27 season?
Bengaluru FC have signed five foreign players ahead of the 2026-27 ISL season.
Which foreign player will strengthen Bengaluru FC’s defence?
Bengaluru FC have added Sandro EmbalĂł and Menno Koch to strengthen their centre-back options.
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