NorthEast United sign Mizoram defender Mark Zothanpuia on three-year deal
NorthEast United FC announced on August 6, 2026 that they have signed Mizoram-born defender Mark Zothanpuia to a three-year contract ahead of the Indian Super League season. The 24-year-old arrives after spells with Hyderabad FC, East Bengal FC and Jamshedpur FC.
Born on 22 April 2002 in Serchhip, Mizoram, Zothanpuia progressed from the FC Pune City youth system and is noted for being comfortable at left-back while also capable of operating in midfield. The club described him as having versatility, work rate and composure on the ball.
Zothanpuia joined Hyderabad FC’s reserve side in 2019 and was promoted to the senior squad ahead of the 2020-21 season. He made more than 20 Indian Super League appearances for Hyderabad and was part of the club’s 2021-22 ISL title-winning campaign.
After his time at Hyderabad, Zothanpuia moved to East Bengal FC in June 2024 and then signed for Jamshedpur FC ahead of the 2025-26 season, giving him experience across multiple ISL clubs before joining NorthEast United.
On the international front, Zothanpuia has represented the India U23 national team and featured in the squad for the international friendlies against Malaysia in 2024. During that period he played under Naushad Moosa, who also serves as NorthEast United FC’s Technical Director and Head Coach of the Reserve Team.
Speaking after the announcement, Zothanpuia said: “I’m looking forward to this next step in my career. NorthEast United is a club that represents this region, and that means a lot to me as someone from the Northeast. I’ve had good experiences at every club I’ve played for so far, and I want to keep building on that here.”
Head coach Juan Pedro Benali commented: “Mark is a player with good experience in this league already, including winning it. His versatility means we can use him in more than one position, which is valuable for us over a long season. We’re happy to have him with the squad.” NorthEast United FC CEO Mandar Tamhane added: “We’re delighted to welcome Mark to NorthEast United. He is one of the region’s finest footballers, and we’re excited to bring a player from Mizoram back to represent the NorthEast. His experience, versatility and roots in the region make him an excellent addition as we continue building a strong squad for the season ahead.”
The club shared the news via its social channels (A post shared by NorthEast United F.C. (@northeastunitedfc)), confirming Zothanpuia’s three-year deal and that he will be available to Juan Pedro Benali’s squad for the season ahead.