NorthEast United finalise five-man foreign contingent for ISL 2026-27
NorthEast United have announced a five-player foreign contingent for the Indian Super League 2026-27 as the ISL returns on October 10 with 13 teams and the playoffs reinstated after the 2025-26 season.
The Highlanders, two-time Durand Cup champions, come into the new campaign after a disappointing ISL 2025-26 season and have overhauled their overseas roster, signing four new foreign players while re-registering Alaeddine Ajaraie after a loan spell in Indonesia; the club’s recruitment is largely Spanish-led and includes a former Serbian U-21 international under owner John Abraham.
Alaeddine Ajaraie, the Moroccan forward who joined India in 2024, remains NorthEast United’s focal point and brings an extensive list of honours: two Durand Cup Golden Boots, one ISL Golden Boot and Golden Ball, the FPAI Foreign Player of the Year award in 2025, three ISL Player of the Month awards, 30 goal contributions in 25 ISL appearances, and a total of 48 goals and 15 assists for the Highlanders across all competitions along with two Durand Cup titles.
Antonio Moyano arrives from Diamond Harbour and adds attacking versatility and ball-progression ability to Juan Pedro Benali’s squad; Moyano scored five goals during his spell at Diamond Harbour and carries experience of playing in Indian conditions.
Ethyan González, the first foreign signing of NorthEast United’s window and aged 24, joins from Qatari side Muaither SC where he scored eight goals in 20 outings, and he has already netted two goals in the Durand Cup; Gonzalez previously played for Atlético Madrid B, scoring five goals in 34 appearances, and is listed at 6’1, offering a physical presence up front who can partner Ajaraie or serve as an impact substitute.
Nikola Ninković is the sole non-Spanish incoming player and brings international experience and positional flexibility, primarily as an attacking midfielder but also able to occupy the left wing; the club plans to deploy him behind Ajaraie to create opportunities and unlock defences.
Eneko Satrústegui, a 35-year-old left-footed defender and the oldest member of NorthEast United’s foreign group, replaces outgoing skipper Michel Zabaco in the backline, has represented LaLiga sides Osasuna and Racing Santander, and is expected to contribute experience in reading difficult match situations and initiating build-up from the back.
NorthEast United’s foreign list for ISL 2026-27 comprises Alaeddine Ajaraie, Antonio Moyano, Ethyan González, Nikola Ninković and Eneko Satrústegui, with Juan Pedro Benali as head coach as the team prepares for the league kick-off on October 10.