NorthEast United FC predicted lineup for ISL 2024-25

The Highlanders will aim to ride their bright form into the league.

After an exciting season opener with the Durand Cup, the limelight now shifts to the all-important Indian Super League(ISL). The league will unveil its 11th edition come September 13 with a new team on board in the form of Mohammedan SC. The Kolkata giants won the last edition of the I-league and have deservingly earned a promotion to the Indian top flight.

The Black Panthers’ inclusion in the league has taken the total number of teams to 13 and has also increased the number of fixtures. It’s certainly going to be a cracker of a season with more teams, more matches and more competition. However, a big talking point going into the league would be the resurgence of NorthEast United FC who have announced their arrival in Indian football.

The Highlanders exceeded expectations and went on to win their first piece of silverware in the form of the 133rd edition Durand Cup. Juan Pedro Benali’s men made history by defeating 17-time Durand Cup champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant in front of a jam-packed crowd in Kolkata. It seems NorthEast United have a lot in store for them this season.

On that note, let us take a look at how the Highlanders could line up in the upcoming edition of the ISL.

NorthEast United FC Lineup (Formation: 4-2-3-1 )

Goalkeeper: Gurmeet Singh

Gurmeet Singh will undoubtedly be the Highlanders’ first-choice goalkeeper who paid a big transfer fee to get him last winter. The goalkeeper has kept three clean sheets so far this season and pulled off two crucial saves during the penalty shootout in the Durand Cup final and also won the Golden Glove in the process.

Right Back: Robin Yadav

The right-back is among NorthEast United’s new arrivals during the summer. He has come up through the ranks at Bengaluru and is an exciting addition to the Guwahati-based side. Robin’s composure coupled with his game-reading abilities is very likely to make him the first-choice right-back for Juan Pedro Benali.

Centre Back: Asheer Akhtar

Asheer Akhtar will continue to retain his place at the heart of the backline. He had an incredible debut season last year and will be keen to build upon his heroics. The 29-year-old has maintained a solid partnership with club captain Michel Zobaco and will hope to keep things tight at the back.

Centre Back: Michel Zobaco

Zobaco became the first captain to lead NorthEast United to a title. The Spaniard is known for his leadership abilities and rigidity at the back. He is a proven player under Benali and knows and understands his philosophy. Moreover, he is a proven goalscorer and has four goal contributions to his name.

Left Back: Buanthanglun Samte

Samte has been a consistent performer for the Highlanders over the last one year. His performance in the last edition of the ISL and the recently concluded Durand Cup have made him a sure shot starter at the left-back position. 

Central Defensive Midfielder: Mohammed Ali Bemammer

The Moroccan midfielder is one of the most dedicated players at Northeast United. He plays his heart out and is ever ready to put everything on the line for the badge. He has a bag full of experience and is known for his decisive moves in the middle of the park.

Central Defensive Midfielder – Macarton Louis Nickson

Macarton will accompany Bemammer in central midfield. At 20, the midfielder has it all that it takes to become the best in his position. He’s young, quick, and has a never-say-die attitude. Moreover, his maturity with and without the ball is commendable.

Right Midfielder: Parthib Gogoi

The Highlanders’ poster boy will want to build upon his heroics from last season. Parthib Gogoi had a breakthrough campaign last season and has already shown us what he brings to the table and that he can hurt anyone on his day. He just needs to put his head down and keep hustling to continue bringing out his best version for the club.

Central Attacking Midfielder: Nestor Albiach

Nestor Albiach has been one of the driving forces behind NorthEast United’s inspiring run of form. The Spaniard has hit the ground running ever since his arrival at the club and has 12 goal contributions to show for his efforts. His creativity and versatility will come in very handy for his side going forward.

Left Midfielder: Jithin MS

Jithin MS has become a completely different player ever since the turn of the year. The winger has turned all his critics into his fans and has become a fan favorite at NorthEast United. He is one of the most dangerous players in the Highlanders’ squad and also won the Golden Ball at the Durand Cup.

Striker: Guillermo Fernandez

The former Athletic Bilbao striker has already registered his name among the best foreign players to ever play for NorthEast United. Guillermo Fernandez came off the bench and rescued his side in the final and became their hero. Moreover, he finished as the second highest goalscorer at the championship with five goals to his name.

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