Daijiworld Media Network- Guwahati
Guwahati, Jul 1: NorthEast United FC, one of the Indian Super League’s founding franchises, may not boast a decorated trophy cabinet, but their influence in developing Indian talent and capturing the spirit of the Northeast remains unmatched. Amid their highs and lows, the club has seen a host of unforgettable names grace their jersey — and now, their All-Time Best XI has been revealed, reflecting grit, growth, and raw footballing brilliance.
The goalkeeping spot in this prestigious line-up goes to TP Rehenesh, the early face of the Highlanders' resilience. Guarding the net for five seasons, he recorded 13 clean sheets in 49 appearances and became a symbol of consistency and determination in the formative years of the club. Though Gurmeet Singh has impressed in recent times, Rehenesh’s longevity edges him into the XI.
Reagan Singh, a defensive stalwart, makes the right-back position his own. With 69 appearances and a key role in NorthEast United’s historic 2018-19 semi-final run, Reagan's dependability earns him the nod over Ashutosh Mehta. On the opposite flank, Gurjinder Kumar is the preferred left-back, with his solid performances during the 2020-21 campaign standing out. Though Buanthanglun Samte has impressed recently, Gurjinder's consistency gives him the edge.
At the heart of the defence, Michel Zabaco anchors the backline. The Spaniard’s arrival transformed the Highlanders defensively, and under Juan Pedro Benali’s guidance, he led the club from a last-place finish to playoff qualification in 2024-25. Partnering him is Asheer Akhtar, whose recent surge in form and all-round performances have cemented his place as the top Indian centre-back to don the Highlanders' jersey.
Midfield sees the rise of Ahmed Bemammer, a modern-day midfield general. His control, vision, and ability to break opposition plays made him indispensable in NorthEast United’s recent revival. Alongside him stands Rowllin Borges, who rose from a promising youngster to a midfield maestro in the 2018-19 season. Borges’ influence in the semi-final run that year remains etched in Highlanders’ folklore.
No all-time NEUFC XI would be complete without Federico Gallego — arguably the club’s greatest ever player. With nine goals and 11 assists in 47 appearances, Gallego’s creativity and leadership were instrumental in both of the team’s semi-final journeys.
On the wings, Parthib Gogoi occupies the right flank. A prodigy who emerged as a star in the last three seasons, his knack for long-range strikes and ability to unlock defences made him a fan favourite, leaving behind names like Redeem Tlang and VP Suhair. The left wing is claimed by Jithin MS, whose adaptability and 15 goal contributions in over 50 appearances give him a slight edge over the ever-reliable Imran Khan.
Leading the line in this all-time XI is Alaaeddine Ajaraie, the man who rewrote ISL history. With a sensational 23 goals and 7 assists in the 2024-25 season, the Moroccan striker delivered a campaign for the ages, setting records and lifting NorthEast United to a new level of attacking power. Despite the contributions of greats like Bartholomew Ogbeche, Deshorn Brown, and Wilmar Jordan Gil, Ajaraie’s staggering numbers make his inclusion unquestionable.
As NorthEast United FC continues its journey, this All-Time XI stands not just as a collection of the club’s best players, but as a testament to its unwavering identity — passionate, proud, and full of promise.