Punjab FC predicted lineup for ISL 2024-25
The Shers will try to replicate their success from last season
Punjab FC will always have a special identity in the Indian Super League (ISL), as the first-ever team to gain promotion into the league. The Shers won the 2022-23 I-League season by fine margins, to secure a direct entry into the ISL courtesy of the newly implemented rules back then.
In their first-ever ISL season, Punjab FC looked quite weary at first, having failed to pick up three points in their first ten league games. Halfway through the season however, fortunes took a quick turn for Punjab, and some smart winter signings transformed them into one of the most in-form teams with one of the best-attacking contingents in the league, which included the likes of Luka Majcen, Juan Mera, Mahdid Talal and Jordan Gill.
Punjab FC convincingly finished eighth in the league, ahead of the likes of East Bengal and Bengaluru FC, showcasing their incredible might and relentless efforts. The dawn of the 24-25 season has seen a lot of changes at the club however, with the departure of their head coach Staikos Vergetis, and some star players from last season bidding farewell.
Amidst these departures, there have also been some exciting inclusions. The most prominent among these is the appointment of seasoned Greek manager Panagiotis Dilmperis as the club’s head coach. Other than that, Punjab FC have also attracted some well-known faces in the ISL and the I-League, putting together quite an exciting team, that will surely give giants like Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City a run for their money.
With that being said, let us take a look at how Punjab FC might shape up for the upcoming ISL season.
Punjab FC’s Lineup (Formation: 4-2-1-3)
Goalkeeper: Ravi Kumar
Ravi Kumar made 16 appearances in the ISL last season and also kept three clean sheets. Courtesy of his consistent performances in the back, Ravi consolidated his place in the team, and will also be Punjab’s custodian in the back this season.
Right Back: Khaiminthang Lhungdim
Lhungdim started in all of Punjab’s FC Durand Cup games this season and was quite impressive in the backline. The 24-year-old right-back seems to finally be ready to make it to the ISL first team, and he will surely be an interesting prospect to watch.
Centre Back: Ivan Novoselec
Ivan offers a lot of solidity and experience in the back for Punjab. With around a decade of experience under his belt, Ivan has played his club career majorly in Croatia, Slovenia, and Tajikistan. The Croatian will be a key cog in the back for Punjab and will have to be at the top of his game throughout the season.
Centre Back: Suresh Meitei
Suresh was a regular starter in the back for Punjab FC last season, and was a solid figure in the back. Suresh’s great understanding of the game, and his unmatched positioning gives him an edge over attackers.
Left Back: Tekcham Abhishek Singh
19-year-old Abhishek Singh has already become a regular starter for Punjab FC, making 12 league appearances last season, and featuring in all of their Durand Cup games this season. The talented youngster will have plenty to offer to Punjab FC in the coming season.
Central Midfielder: Nikhil Prabhu
Upon his transfer from FC Goa last season, Nikhil emerged as a regular starter for Punjab in the midfield, contributing heavily in the defensive half. In the 2024 Durand Cup, Nikhil started all four games, and also got an assist to his name, proving his importance in this team once again.
Central Midfielder: Vinit Rai
Last year’s ISL winner Vinit Rai has been one of the best signings made by Punjab FC this season. Despite not getting enough game time, the 26-year-old midfielder has been performing at a great level consistently, and will surely be an X factor in Punjab’s squad.
Central Attacking Midfielder: Filip Mrzljak
Punjab’s summer signing Filip Mrzljak has been in fine form ever since joining the club. The Croatian already has two goals and three assists to his name in just four games for the Shers and has surely emerged as an indispensable figure in the team. Also, Filip contributes heavily in the defensive half.
Right Winger: Ezequiel Vidal
Vidal, who joined Punjab FC from Indonesian top-division side Persita FC, has proven his worth to the Shers in just a single game. Vidal came from the bench in the second half of Punjab’s quarter-final fixture in the Durand Cup and scored and assisted a goal apiece, exciting the fans for what’s awaiting them in the league season.
Left Midfielder: Ninthoi Meetei
Ninthoinganba Meetei was amongst Punjab’s best Indian signings this season. The talented winger has the skills and ability to get past defenders with ease, and under the right guidance and proper game time, he can prove to be a lethal force for Punjab this season.
Striker: Luka Majcen
Luka retains his place in the starting lineup without any doubt. The Punjab FC star, who helped the Shers earn promotion to the ISL, didn’t disappoint in Punjab’s first top-flight season, as he had 10 goal contributions to his name. Also, Luka has started this season strong, with four goals in four games in the Durand Cup.
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