NorthEast United eye Mohun Bagan as ISL 2026-27 season opens in Guwahati
NorthEast United will host Mohun Bagan Super Giant in Guwahati in their opening Indian Super League 2026-27 match on 12 October at 7:30 pm IST. The Highlanders arrive after a disappointing IFA Shield campaign and a 2026 Durand Cup semi-final defeat to Mohun Bagan decided by a penalty shootout.
The ISL has returned in an all-new avatar after a thrilling opening day of fixtures, and attention now shifts to NorthEast’s season opener. Mohun Bagan, who lost the last league title to East Bengal, will be intent on beginning with three points. Juan Pedro Benali and his players have faced criticism following their IFA Shield display, adding pressure to the Highlanders ahead of the fixture.
Parthib has been one of NorthEast’s most consistent forwards and is expected to attempt to replicate his previous heroics in the Indian top flight this season. His pace and on-field maturity are cited as attributes that could influence NorthEast United’s attacking output in Guwahati.
Gogoi finished the Durand Cup with seven goal contributions — two goals and five assists — and is noted for bringing energy and the ability to change games after coming off the bench. Jithin MS, 28, has become a regular starter under Benali, contributed four goal involvements in the Durand Cup, and offers blistering pace and accurate crosses that frequently trouble opposition defenders.
Eneko Satrústegui, 35, arrives as the centre-back replacement for outgoing skipper Michel Zabaco; the left-footed Spaniard has previously played for Osasuna and Racing Santander. He is expected to shoulder primary defensive responsibilities and to pass his experience on to younger members of the squad.
Pramveer Singh, 19, was one of the most talked-about signings and chose NorthEast United despite multiple offers. Described as a young, dynamic defender, he is expected to start regularly, brings composure under pressure and defensive instincts, and could form a partnership with Eneko Satrústegui and Asheer Akhtar.
Alaaeddine Ajaraie, 33, returns to the ISL after missing last season due to complications and will rejoin NorthEast following a loan spell. He recently scored his 50th goal for the Highlanders in the IFA Shield and has won three golden boots and two golden balls since donning NorthEast United colours.
NorthEast United’s season begins on 12 October at 7:30 pm IST in Guwahati when they face Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their ISL 2026-27 opener.