Juan Pedro Benali, the 55-year-old Spanish tactician, has already etched his name into NorthEast United FC’s history by clinching the Durand Cup last month, defeating the mighty Mohun Bagan in the finals. After falling just one point short of a playoff spot last season, the Highlanders enter the ISL 2024-25 season reinvigorated, with their eyes set on greater achievements. With a well-rounded squad and a newfound sense of confidence, they are determined to be a force to reckon with.
NorthEast United showed glimpses of brilliance during the previous season but struggled with consistency, ultimately finishing seventh, one point shy of the playoffs. Despite this, Juan Pedro Benali’s side demonstrated their ability to challenge some of the league’s top teams, though results often fell short. Their journey ended with mixed feelings but left a promising foundation to build upon.
Now, with their first-ever trophy secured, the Highlanders are entering the 2024-25 season with heightened expectations. They aim to break into the playoffs for the first time since the 2020-21 campaign and are poised to contend for the title, buoyed by their Durand Cup success.
Benali’s contract extension earlier this year reflects the club’s trust in his abilities. His experience and tactical acumen have transformed NorthEast United into a competitive side. The management, led by CEO Mandar Tamhane, has brought in talented reinforcements, while Naushad Moosa, the assistant coach and head of the academy, is key in developing young talent.
The Highlanders had a stellar pre-season, which included winning their first-ever Durand Cup title. After dominant performances in the group stage, they saw off tough opponents like Shillong Lajong and Indian Army to set up a dramatic final against ISL Shield winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant. In a tense penalty shoot-out, NorthEast United emerged victorious, a testament to their resilience and team unity.
This pre-season success has given the squad confidence and momentum heading into the ISL, with players well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Summer Transfer Window: Transfer Window Moves
NorthEast United’s summer transfer window was marked by shrewd signings and strategic extensions. The club retained several key players, including defensive stalwart Mohammed Ali Bemammer, versatile midfielder Hamza Regragui, defender Michel Zabaco, and dynamic forward Nestor Albiach. These extensions maintain continuity within the squad while providing experience and leadership on the pitch.
In terms of new signings, Moroccan forward Alaeddine Ajaraie, who has already made an impact with 3 goals and 2 assists in the Durand Cup, joins the attack alongside Spanish striker Guillermo Fernandez, a proven goalscorer with 5 goals and 2 assists so far.
On the domestic front, exciting additions include Mayakkanan Muthu from Sreenidhi Deccan and Robin Yadav from Bengaluru FC. These young talents will help strengthen the squad’s depth as NorthEast United prepares for the rigorous season ahead.
Departures include Hira Mondal, Gani Nigam, Gaurav Bora, Rochharzela, and Manvir Singh, who left after their contracts expired. However, the club has made sure to extend contracts for key Indian players like Asheer Akhtar, Mirshad Michu, and Tondonba Singh.
Key Transfers In
- Muthu Irulandi Mayakkannan,
- Robin Yadav
- Ankith P
- Guiillermo Fernandez
- Aleaddine Ajaraie
Key Transfers Out
- Tomi Juric
- Manvir Singh
- Rochharzela
- Gani Nigam
- Gaurav Bora
- Hira Mondal
NorthEast United Strengths
Momentum from Durand Cup Victory: NorthEast United enters the 2024-25 ISL season riding high on their first-ever Durand Cup win, having defeated reigning champions Mohun Bagan in the final. This success has instilled a winning mentality and belief within the squad, boosting their confidence ahead of the ISL campaign.
Juan Pedro Benali’s Tactical Acumen: Benali’s leadership has transformed NorthEast United into a competitive force. His experience and tactical flexibility have allowed the team to play with a well-rounded approach, as they proved last season by competing with the league’s top sides. His ability to bring the best out of players like Jithin MS and Parthib Gogoi makes him a critical asset for the Highlanders.
Squad Continuity and Reinforcements: Retaining key players such as Mohammed Ali Bemammer, Michel Zabaco, and Nestor Albiach ensures continuity and familiarity with Benali’s system. This core group of players, combined with talented new signings like Moroccan forward Alaeddine Ajaraie and Spanish striker Guillermo Fernandez, bolsters the team’s attack and overall depth.
Versatile Attack: NorthEast United’s forward line is one of their greatest strengths. With Ajaraie and Fernandez leading the line, and dynamic wingers like Jithin MS and Parthib Gogoi providing creativity, the Highlanders have a versatile attack capable of scoring from multiple positions. This balance in attack gives them various ways to break down opposition defenses.
Promising Young Talent: Players like Jithin MS and Parthib Gogoi have shown tremendous growth under Benali. These young stars, along with new Indian recruits such as Mayakkanan Muthu and Robin Yadav, provide NorthEast United with a blend of youthful energy and potential, giving the team a competitive edge in fast-paced ISL matches.
NorthEast United Weaknesses
Defensive Frailty: Despite their attacking prowess, NorthEast United has struggled to maintain defensive stability. Last season, they kept only a few clean sheets and were prone to conceding goals, especially in high-pressure situations. While their defense has been reinforced, it remains to be seen if they can address these issues fully in the upcoming season.
Inconsistent Form: NorthEast United showed flashes of brilliance last season but lacked consistency, especially in key moments. Their inability to sustain their form throughout the campaign resulted in a missed playoff spot by just one point. If this inconsistency carries into the new season, it could hinder their chances of making a significant impact in the ISL.
Over-reliance on Key Players: While retaining players like Bemammer, Albiach, and Jithin MS is a positive, the team remains heavily reliant on their top performers. Injuries or dips in form from these players could create significant problems, as the squad may struggle to fill their roles adequately.
Limited Depth in Defense: Although the team boasts solid midfield and attacking options, their depth in defense is still a concern. Injuries or suspensions to key defenders like Zabaco or Regragui could expose the lack of high-quality alternatives, leaving them vulnerable against stronger opponents.
New Signings Need Time to Settle: While new additions like Ajaraie and Fernandez have shown promise, they will need time to fully integrate into Benali’s system. If these players take too long to adapt or fail to gel with the rest of the squad, NorthEast United may struggle in the early part of the season, which could impact their overall campaign.
Key Players to Watch
Jithin MS
A standout player last season, Jithin MS has continued his impressive form into the Durand Cup. Under Benali, he has blossomed on the left wing, using his pace and cutting ability to great effect.
With 4 goals and 3 assists in the Durand Cup, Jithin is expected to be one of the Highlanders’ most dangerous players in the upcoming ISL season.
Parthib Gogoi
The 21-year-old forward from Assam has established himself as a key player for NorthEast United.
With 5 goals and 4 assists in the previous campaign, Gogoi has shown his finishing prowess and versatility. This season, he aims to further develop his game and possibly earn a call-up to the national team.
Nestor Albiach
As one of the team’s most influential players last season, Albiach brings creativity and goal-scoring ability.
He finished with 5 goals and was the team’s top chance creator. His contributions in attack will be vital if NorthEast United hopes to reach the playoffs.
NorthEast United Full Squad for ISL 2024-25
Goalkeepers:
- Dipesh Chauhan
- Gurmeet Singh Chahal
- Mirshad Koottappunna Michu
Defenders:
- Asheer Akhtar
- Buanthanglun Samte
- Dinesh Singh Soraisham
- Hamza Regragui
- Miguel Zabaco Tomé
- Robin Yadav
- Tondonba Singh Ngasepam
Midfielders:
- Bekey Oram
- Danny Meitei Laishram
- Fredy Chawngthansanga
- Macarton Louis Nickson
- Mohammed Ali Bemammer
- Muthu Irulandi Mayakkannan
- Néstor Albiach Roger
- Phalguni Singh Konsam
- Shighil Nambrath Shaji
Forwards:
- Alaeddine Ajaraie
- Ankith Padmanabhan
- Guillermo Fernández Hierro
- Jithin Madathil Subran
- Parthib Sundar Gogoi
- Redeem Tlang
- Thoi Singh Huidrom
Predicted Starting XI
Formation: 4-3-3
- GK: Gurmeet Singh
- Defenders: Buanthanglun Samte, Michel Zabaco, Asheer Akhtar, Dinesh Singh
- Midfielders: Mohammed Ali Bemammer, Mayakkanan Muthu, Alaeddine Ajaraie
- Forwards: Parthib Gogoi, Jithin MS, Guillermo Fernandez
Final Thoughts and Predictions
The Highlanders kick off their ISL campaign with an away game against newly-promoted Mohammedan Sporting Club. Following that, they will face a stern test against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in a rematch of the Durand Cup final. With a challenging set of early fixtures, NorthEast United will need to hit the ground running to establish themselves as playoff contenders from the start.
NorthEast United is entering this season with a clear goal: secure a playoff spot. Their Durand Cup victory has instilled belief and a winning mentality within the squad. With Benali’s tactical brilliance, a strengthened squad, and the momentum from pre-season, they are expected to be among the top contenders for a playoff position. However, the question remains whether they have enough firepower to go all the way in the Indian Super League.
Read More: ISL 2024-25: FC Goa Team Preview: Full Squad, Key Players, New Signings, Strengths and Weaknesses
When is NorthEast United’s first match of the ISL 2024-25 season?
The Highlanders will kick off their season with an away game against newly-promoted Mohammedan Sporting Club on Monday, 16th September from 7:30 pm onwards.
