Chennaiyin FC have unveiled a 29-member squad for the upcoming Indian Super League, ISL 2025–26 season, signalling continuity in core areas while integrating a set of targeted reinforcements.
The Marina Machans will begin their campaign with four consecutive away fixtures, starting against Mumbai City FC on February 19.
The squad announcement also confirmed the shirt numbers of the club’s five new arrivals. Imran Khan will wear the No. 7 jersey, while Spanish midfielder Alberto Noguera takes up No. 14. Defensive recruit Eduardo Kau has been assigned No. 33, Mohammed Ali Bemmamer will sport No. 66, and compatriot Inigo Martin assumes the iconic No. 10 shirt, traditionally reserved for a central attacking figure.
A Balanced Blend of Continuity and Change
Chennaiyin’s roster reflects a calculated mix of experience and youth. Several players from last season remain central to the setup, ensuring familiarity with the league’s physical and tactical demands. At the same time, fresh additions have been brought in to enhance depth, particularly in midfield and defence.
There are notable number changes within the existing group. Irfan Yadwad switches to No. 24, Jitendra Singh moves to No. 3, and Lalrinliana Hnamte transitions from No. 22 to No. 8 a subtle reshuffle that often signals evolving roles within the tactical structure.
The club has also maintained a six-player foreign contingent, distributing overseas experience across the spine of the team. Daniel Chima Chukwu returns after making 24 appearances last season, providing a familiar attacking presence. His physicality and ability to operate as a target forward remain integral to Chennaiyin’s offensive plans.
In goal, Chennaiyin possess depth and competition. Mohammad Nawaz, Samik Mitra, and Devansh Dabas form a three-strong unit capable of rotating depending on form and tactical preference. Nawaz brings top-tier experience and composure in build-up play, while Mitra and Dabas add youthful competition.
Defensive Core and Structure
The backline combines leadership with versatility. Experienced names such as Pritam Kotal and Ankit Mukherjee provide stability, while players like PC Laldinpuia, Vignesh D, and Raj Basfore add pace and width options. The arrival of Eduardo Kau introduces additional central defensive strength, reinforcing aerial presence and defensive organisation.
Jahangir Ahmad Shagoo’s promotion from the development system signals the club’s willingness to integrate emerging talent. His inclusion, alongside holdovers like Laldinliana Renthlei and Madar Rao Dessai, gives Chennaiyin a defensive unit capable of adapting between back-four and back-three systems if required.
Midfield Depth and Creative Balance
The midfield department appears to be one of the squad’s strongest components. Alberto Noguera’s arrival is expected to bring composure and progressive passing in central areas, complementing the energy of Lalrinliana Hnamte and Jiteshwor Singh.
Mohammed Ali Bemmamer adds physical balance, while Farukh Choudhary and Y Nitish Kumar Meitei provide flexibility in wide and advanced midfield roles. Jitendra Singh’s switch to No. 3 may reflect tactical versatility, suggesting potential deployment in deeper or hybrid roles.
The presence of multiple midfield profiles defensive anchors, box-to-box operators, and creative distributors offers Chennaiyin flexibility in shaping transitions and controlling tempo.
Attacking Options and Youth Integration
Up front, Chennaiyin retain a diverse attacking pool. Inigo Martin’s allocation of the No. 10 jersey indicates his role as a central attacking fulcrum. Imran Khan, wearing No. 7, is expected to operate in wide channels, offering pace and directness. Irfan Yadwad, the club’s top appearance-maker last season with 25 outings, remains a consistent attacking contributor. Gurkirat Singh and Daniel Chima Chukwu provide contrasting profiles in central striking roles.
Notably, the club has promoted Prakadeswaran S and retained Vivek S in the first-team fold a continuation of Chennaiyin’s emphasis on youth integration. The inclusion of academy graduates underscores the long-term developmental philosophy within the club’s structure.
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With four consecutive away matches to begin the campaign, Chennaiyin face an early test of resilience and squad depth. The balance between continuity and fresh energy will be critical in navigating the demanding single-leg league format.
The 29-man roster reflects a club intent on improving consistency while preserving structural stability. If cohesion develops quickly among the new signings and returning core, Chennaiyin FC could position themselves as competitive contenders in the 2025–26 Indian Super League season.
