NorthEast United FC have built a strong reputation for nurturing young talent, a tradition that continued in the latest season of the Indian Super League (ISL).

With the addition of Juan Pedro Benali, Naushad Moosa, and Mandar Tamhane, the club is intensifying its commitment to developing a promising future.

Last season, the Highlanders enriched their squad with emerging talents, providing them valuable game time in the league. Among them is Huidrom Thoi Singh, who joined from Bengaluru FC.

Originating from Imphal and honed through the Reliance Foundation Young Champs program, Singh is poised to play a pivotal role in Benali’s long-term strategy.

In an exclusive interview with NorthEast United FC, Singh reflected on his journey in football and shared insights from his time at Bengaluru FC.

"I started playing football in my hometown with my friends, and then I began participating in local football tournaments,” Singh told NorthEast United FC media.

“In 2015, I was selected for the Reliance Foundation program, where I played for five years. After that, I joined Bengaluru FC and played there for almost three years. I learned about the offer from Bengaluru FC through (Naushad) Moosa Sir. Initially, I joined the reserves team but in my first season I was training with the first team. Later after one year, I got promoted to the senior team,” he added.

The 20-year-old spent three seasons with Bengaluru FC but primarily featured for their Reserve squad. The attacker discussed his choice to depart Bengaluru FC and his reasons for joining the Highlanders.

"I left Bengaluru FC because I wanted to grow as a young player here at NorthEast United FC. That’s why I came here. I knew I would get more playing time here than at Bengaluru FC. It was a decision I made,” Singh revealed.

Singh made his ISL debut with NorthEast United FC, coming on as a substitute in a 3-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC. He featured in five matches this season, amassing a total of 123 minutes on the field.

Speaking about his first season with the Highlanders, he said, “Yeah, it has been good, and I am very happy with the coach for giving me the opportunity to play. It has been a great experience."

He shed light on the improvements he's noticed within the NorthEast United FC side. Singh also emphasized the team's aim to achieve something significant next season, aiming to bring smiles to the faces of the fans.

"We are improving compared to last season, and I hope we can do much better and achieve more next season.

“Even though we haven’t won a trophy, we want fans to come and support us, and we hope we can deliver something next season. We want to win something for the club since the club hasn’t won any trophies, so we aim to achieve something next season." Singh commented.