Juan Pedro Benali, the 55-year-old Spanish tactician has etched his name as the first coach to add a trophy to NorthEast United‘s cabinet, by lifting the coveted Durand Cup last month, defeating the mighty Mohun Bagan in the finals. They had a disappointing conclusion to the previous season as they fell just one point away from the play-off spot, but, this time, they are not going down easily as they look reinvigorated on and off the paper, aiming high for the season.
Juan Pedro Benali’s contract was extended for another year last January, with an option for further extension, reflecting the trust and confidence the management has in the experienced coach. The contributions of Mandar Tamhane, CEO, cannot be overlooked; his influence has been pivotal in bringing talented players to the squad. Additionally, Naushad Moosa, appointed as both the Indian Assistant Coach and Head of the Academy, is renowned for his ability to lead and develop young talent to the highest levels. The expertise and vision of professionals like these are key to the squad’s impressive performance.
Summer Transfer Window
NorthEast United has been astute in upgrading their squad by spending wisely and bringing in quality players despite some departures. They’ve extended the contract of their top performer on the pitch, Mohammed Ali Bemammer, who has been one of the league’s most underrated players. The club has also secured extensions for key foreign players: Michel Zabaco, a solid defender; Hamza Regragui, a versatile midfielder; and Nestor Albiach, a dynamic attacker. These four experienced campaigners fit well into Juan’s system, making the team a formidable force.
The club has added Moroccan forward Alaeddine Ajaraie, who brings valuable experience from the Moroccan top division and the Qatari second tier. Ajaraie has made an impressive start with 3 goals and 2 assists in the Durand Cup. Another new addition is Spanish striker Guillermo Fernandez, known for his clinical finishing, who has already scored 5 goals and provided 2 assists.
Among Indian players, Hira Mondal, Gani Nigam, Gaurav Bora, Rochharzela, and Manvir Singh have left the squad as their contracts expired and were not renewed. However, Asheer Akhtar, Mirshad Michu, and Tondonba Singh have had their contracts extended, becoming key players under Benali’s leadership.
Exciting new recruits include Mayakkanan Muthu from Sreenidhi Deccan, Robin Yadav from Bengaluru FC, Ankith Padmanabhan from Bengaluru Reserves, and Alfred Lalruotsang from Rajasthan United. Each of these players brings great potential to the squad.
Pre-Season
Juan Pedro Benali has prepared his team at a high level, leading them through a challenging Durand Cup campaign, which they ultimately won. This successful pre-season for NorthEast United not only saw them claim silverware but also demonstrated their enhanced squad mentality, crucial for the heightened competition expected in the Indian Super League.
Their pre-season began on July 15 with a focused approach towards the Durand Cup. In the group stage, they were placed alongside Bodoland FC, Odisha FC, and BSF. NorthEast United excelled, winning all three matches—2-0 against Bodoland, 5-1 against Odisha, and 4-0 against BSF. They dominated these games, scoring 11 goals and conceding just once, and advanced to the quarter-finals as group winners.
In the quarter-finals, they faced the Indian Army and secured a 2-0 victory, asserting their dominance. They then convincingly defeated Shillong Lajong 3-0 in the semi-finals, setting up a final against the reigning ISL shield winners, Mohun Bagan SG. The final was closely contested, ending 2-2 after regular time. In the ensuing penalty shoot-out, NorthEast United emerged victorious, claiming their first-ever silverware in the club’s history.
Overall, it was a seemingly tough pre-season period especially as it included a prestigious tournament which tests the perseverance and mentality of the squad as a whole. This only benefited Benali’s side to develop as a much stronger unit than before.
Squad compared to last season
The Highlanders have made significant strides in enhancing their squad as they prepare for a more challenging season with the addition of another team to the Indian Super League roster. They’ve strengthened their midfield and defense with quality additions like Mayakkannan and Robin, who bring valuable experience to the top level.
The extensions given to core players highlight the club’s commitment to advancing further and not repeating past mistakes. The new foreign signings, Ajaraie and Guillermo, add strength and versatility to the squad, contributing to a stronger unit and versatile team.
Most exciting player to look forward to
One of NorthEast United FC’s standout players is Malayali winger Jithin MS, who has quickly risen to prominence and become a key figure under the Spanish manager. This is Jithin’s third season with the Highlanders, and his career has flourished since Juan Pedro Benali’s arrival. Benali has utilized Jithin predominantly on the left wing, where his blistering pace and cutting ability have proven to be highly effective.
In the previous ISL campaign, Jithin notched 4 goals and 3 assists, establishing himself as a regular starter and impactful player. His continued success as a winger under Benali underscores the strong coach-player synergy. Jithin has picked up right where he left off, contributing 4 goals and 3 assists in just 6 games during the Durand Cup. With such impressive performances, he is definitely a player to watch, as Benali will be looking for even more from this promising talent.
Player with a point to prove
Parthib Gogoi, the 21-year-old forward from Assam, has been a standout performer for the Highlanders over the past two seasons. As he embarks on his third campaign with NorthEast United, he aims to make a significant impact and establish himself as one of the club’s top performers, with aspirations of eventually reaching the national team.
Known for his finishing prowess and versatility, Parthib has made a name for himself as one of the league’s emerging talents. Under Benali, he registered 5 goals and 4 assists in 17 appearances. With the new season approaching, Parthib will look to maintain his high form and consistency, solidifying his place in the squad.
Best XI
Gurmeet is expected to be the first-choice goalkeeper, having secured his position since joining the squad last January under Juan Pedro Benali. Michel Zabaco is likely to be the primary center-back, with Hamza Regragui offering versatility to play either as a center-back or defensive midfielder as needed. Asheer Akhtar is anticipated to start alongside Zabaco, with Samte and Dinesh also preferred options. Tondonba Singh and Robin Yadav may also see significant game time.
Mohammed Ali Bemammer is a guaranteed starter in midfield, with Mayakkannan likely taking over Phalguni Singh’s role from last season. Alaeddine Ajaraie is expected to feature prominently alongside Jithin MS, with Parthib Gogoi also a strong contender. Redeem Tlang, Bekey Oram, and Thoi Singh will provide backup for the wingers. Finally, either Guillermo Fernandez or Nestor Albiach is anticipated to start as the forward, completing the lineup.
Predicted XI: Gurmeet Singh (GK), Buanthanglun Samte, Michel Zabaco, Asheer Akhtar, Dinesh Singh, Mohammed Ali Bemammer, Mayakkanan Muthu, Alaeddine Ajaraie, Parthib Gogoi, Jithin MS, Guillermo Fernandez.
Predictions
It’s a season of reawakening for Benali’s side, as they narrowly missed out on a playoff spot last season. This year, they are setting their sights higher with an enhanced mentality and a superior squad, showcasing persistence and authority on the field. Juan Pedro Benali’s troops are expected to secure nothing less than a playoff berth, especially with their momentum from winning the coveted Durand Cup. However, it remains to be seen if the Highlanders have the firepower to handle the intense competition of the Indian Super League.
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