Northeast United FC showed glimpses of brilliance but struggled with consistency in the last Indian Super League (ISL) season. They will be hoping to get back to their best as they enter the ISL 2024-25 season.

Under Juan Pedro Benali, the team proved they could compete with the league’s top sides, though they faced disappointing results. They were in contention for a playoff spot late in the season but ultimately finished seventh, just a point behind sixth-placed Chennaiyin FC.

Entering this new ISL season with renewed confidence, the Highlanders are buoyed by their recent success, having secured their first-ever title by winning the Durand Cup against the defending champions. With this momentum, their goal is not only to challenge for titles but also to reach the playoffs — a milestone they haven’t achieved since the 2020-21 ISL campaign.

Season	Outcome
2014	8th place (bottom of the table)
2015	5th place (just outside playoff places)
2016	5th place (just outside playoff places)
2017-18	10th place (bottom of the table)
2018-19	4th place (Reached semi-finals)
2019-20	9th place
2020-21	3rd place (Reached semi-finals)
2021-22	10th place (bottom of the table)
2022-23	11th place (Bottom)
2023-24	7th place (just outside playoff places)

Team composition and transfer dealings

Northeast United FC have retained the core of their squad from last season, which should benefit them as the players are already familiar with and have adapted to Benali’s philosophy and demands.

The team parted ways with Tomi Juric, their top ISL scorer from last season, who made a notable impact despite limited appearances. However, they have bolstered their attack by signing Guillermo Fernandez and Aleaddine Ajaraie, two prolific forwards who have quickly made their mark and contributed significantly to their Durand Cup triumph.

Transfer INs

Muthu Irulandi Mayakkannan, Robin Yadav, Ankith P, Guillermo Fernandez, Aleaddine Ajaraie. 

Transfer OUTs

Tomi Juric, Manvir Singh, Rochharzela, Gani Nigam, Gaurav Bora, Hira Mondal. 

Key players

Nestor Albiach

Albiach, who already has a season’s worth of experience, was arguably the Highlanders’ most influential player last season, excelling in multiple roles. He finished as their joint second-highest scorer with five goals and was also their top chance creator. His goal contributions and playmaking will be crucial to their success this season.

Parthib Gogoi

Gogoi had a standout campaign last season, emerging as one of the season’s discoveries. He began the season brightly, showcasing his ability to score from challenging angles outside the box. However, his form dipped as the season progressed. With a point to prove, Gogoi will aim to establish himself as one of their top scorers, having scored five goals, just one shy of top scorer Juric.

Head coach 

Last season, Benali demonstrated his fearless approach and willingness to take risks, encouraging his team to create chances regardless of the situation. This bold strategy is reflected in their defensive record, as they managed just a few clean sheets but were consistently prolific in attack. Their tally of 30 goals was the highest among teams in the bottom half of the table, surpassing even Chennaiyin FC’s tally, who finished above them and made it to the playoffs. With extensive experience across Europe, Asia, and Africa, the Spaniard has showcased his tactical acumen.

Fixtures 

The Highlanders will kick off their season with an away game against newly-promoted Mohammedan Sporting Club, followed by a challenging set of fixtures. Out of their first five matches, only two will be held at their home ground.

Soon after that, they face a major test as they take on Mohun Bagan Super Giant in Matchweek 2 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, a rematch of the Durand Cup final. They will wrap up the year with an away match against Mumbai City FC.

Check out their full fixtures here.