Punjab FC has officially announced its 27-member squad for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season. Entering their third consecutive year in India’s premier football division, the “Shers” have opted for a strategic mix of experienced veterans and homegrown talent. The club looks to build on its previous performances with a roster designed for tactical flexibility.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis, the team aims to establish itself as a consistent contender. The campaign begins with a challenging away fixture against Jamshedpur FC on February 21, followed by their first home game in New Delhi on March 9.
Strategic Foreign Signings and Core Retentions
The Punjab FC squad for ISL 2025-26 features five key foreign players who are expected to form the backbone of the starting XI. The management has prioritized continuity by retaining the core group that featured in the Durand Cup and the AIFF Super Cup earlier this season.
Among the international recruits, midfielders Dani Ramirez and Samir Zeljkovic will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game. In the attacking department, the duo of Nsungusi Jnr Effiong and Bede Amarachi Osuji brings the necessary physical presence to trouble opposition defenses. Completing the foreign quota is Pablo Renan Dos Santos, who adds much-needed composure to the defensive line.
Emphasis on Youth Development
A standout feature of this year’s squad is the inclusion of seven academy graduates. This move aligns with the club’s long-term vision of nurturing local talent. Players like Muhammad Suhail F, Pramveer Singh, and Manglengthang Kipgen have already showcased their potential during senior team debuts.
Joining them this season are Ayush Deshwal and Thoungamba Singh Usham, both promoted from the youth ranks. This integration of young blood ensures that the squad remains energetic throughout a demanding league calendar.
Reshuffled Goalkeeping and Defensive Units
The arrival of Arshdeep Singh marks a significant upgrade in the goalkeeping department. Known for his shot-stopping abilities and leadership, Arshdeep is expected to be the first-choice keeper. He is supported by Muheet Shabir and the young Ayush Deshwal, providing the team with reliable options under the bars.
Defensively, Punjab FC appears robust. The roster includes versatile names such as Bijoy Varghese, Muhammed Uvais, and Nongmaikapam Suresh Meitei. The inclusion of Khaiminthang Lhungdim and Leon Augustine offers the coach various tactical permutations, whether playing a high line or a compact defensive block.
Midfield Creativity and Attacking Depth
The midfield remains the engine room for the Shers. While Dani Ramirez provides the creative spark, Vinit Rai and Samir Zeljkovic offer defensive stability. The squad also benefits from the work rate of Ricky Shabong and the attacking instincts of Princeton Rebello.
Up front, the team boasts significant variety. Beyond the foreign strikers, domestic talents like Ninthoi Meetei and Bikash Singh provide pace on the wings. Ranjeet Singh Pandre and Vishal Yadav add further depth, ensuring that the team has multiple goal-scoring threats from different areas of the pitch.
Technical Staff and Support System
Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis is flanked by a comprehensive technical team. Assistant Coach Konstantinos Katsaras and Indian veteran Sankarlal Chakraborty will assist in tactical planning. The club has also emphasized physical fitness, appointing Papaioannou Ioannis as the Strength and Conditioning Coach to manage player workloads.
Full Punjab FC Squad List:
| Position | Players |
| Goalkeepers | Arshdeep Singh, Muheet Shabir, Ayush Deshwal |
| Defenders | Bijoy Varghese, Muhammed Uvais, Pramveer Singh, Khaiminthang Lhungdim, Pablo Renan Dos Santos, Likmabam Rakesh Meitei, Nongmaikapam Suresh Meitei, Leon Augustine, Thoungamba Singh Usham |
| Midfielders | Dani Ramirez, Samir Zeljkovic, Vinit Rai, Princeton Rebello, Ricky John Shabong, Manglenthang Kipgen, Nikhil Prabhu, Singamayum Shami |
| Forwards | Nsungusi Jnr Effiong, Bede Amarachi Osuji, Ninthoinganba Meetei, Muhammad Suhail F, Bikash Singh, Vishal Yadav, Ranjeet Singh Pandre |
As the Shers prepare for their opening match, the focus remains on transforming individual talent into a cohesive unit. With a blend of tactical discipline and youthful exuberance, Punjab FC is set for a pivotal season in the Indian Super League.
Based on official club announcements and available team details.
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