Punjab FC have officially unveiled their 27-member squad for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) 2025–26 season, as the Shers prepare for their third campaign in India’s top-flight competition.
With a blend of continuity, youth development and targeted reinforcements, the Chandigarh-based club has once again leaned into its long-term philosophy of building sustainably while remaining competitive. Punjab FC will open their campaign against Jamshedpur FC on February 21 in Jamshedpur before playing their first home fixture on March 9 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi against NorthEast United FC. The move to the capital for home games adds a new chapter to the club’s evolving ISL journey.
Continuity Under Dilmperis
Head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis enters his second season at the helm, retaining much of the core that featured in the previous ISL campaign as well as in the Durand Cup and AIFF Super Cup. Stability appears to be a deliberate choice, with the Greek tactician opting to build on familiarity rather than overhaul.
Punjab FC’s foreign contingent includes Dani Ramirez, Samir Zeljkovic, Nsungusi Jnr Effiong, Bede Amarachi Osuji and Pablo Renan Dos Santos. The mix suggests a tactical balance creative presence in midfield, physicality up front and experience at the back. Dilmperis will continue to be supported by assistant coach Konstantinos Katsaras and Indian assistant coach Sankarlal Chakraborty. Papaioannou Ioannis oversees strength and conditioning, while Vinay Singh handles goalkeeping duties. The support structure indicates continuity not just within the squad but across the technical department.
Academy Pathway Remains Central
A defining feature of Punjab FC’s project continues to be its investment in youth development. Seven academy graduates are part of the first-team squad, reinforcing the club’s commitment to its grassroots system.
Muhammad Suhail F, Pramveer Singh, Manglenthang Kipgen, Vishal Yadav and Singamayum Shami have already made senior appearances, while Ayush Deshwal and Thoungamba Singh Usham step up this season. In a league increasingly driven by experienced imports, Punjab’s emphasis on nurturing domestic youth remains a distinguishing characteristic.
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The goalkeeping unit sees the addition of Arshdeep Singh, whose experience is expected to bring composure and leadership. He is joined by Muheet Shabir and academy graduate Ayush Deshwal, forming a well-rounded trio.
Defensively, Punjab FC appear to have focused on versatility and depth. Bijoy Varghese and Muhammed Uvais Moyikkal provide solidity, while Pramveer Singh and Nongmaikapam Suresh Meitei add domestic depth. Pablo Renan Dos Santos strengthens the backline with international experience. Young defenders Likmabam Rakesh Meitei, Leon Augustine and Thoungamba Singh Usham add rotational options and developmental value.
The composition suggests a backline capable of shifting between systems whether a back four or a three-at-the-back structure depending on tactical demands.
Midfield Control and Creative Axis
In midfield, Dani Ramirez is expected to serve as the creative fulcrum. His ability to dictate tempo and unlock defensive lines will be central to Punjab’s attacking transitions. Samir Zeljkovic and Vinit Rai offer control and balance in deeper roles, potentially anchoring the side in high-intensity matches.
Princeton Rebello’s forward movement and Ricky Shabong’s energy provide dynamism, while Manglenthang Kipgen, Nikhil Prabhu and Singamayum Shami contribute depth and work rate. The midfield unit appears designed to maintain structural discipline while allowing moments of creative freedom.
Attack Built on Strength and Pace
Up front, Punjab FC combine physical presence with youthful unpredictability. Nsungusi Effiong and Bede Osuji provide aerial strength and finishing ability inside the box. Emerging talents such as Ninthoi, Suhail and Bikash Singh add mobility and pace, offering tactical flexibility in wide areas.
Vishal Yadav and Ranjeet Singh Pandre complete the forward options, giving Dilmperis multiple profiles to choose from depending on opposition and match context.
Squad Overview
Goalkeepers: Arshdeep Singh, Muheet Shabir, Ayush Deshwal
Defenders: Bijoy Varghese, Muhammed Uvais Moyikkal, 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, Naravi Nikhil Jayantha Prabhu, Singamayum Shami
Forwards: Nsungusi Jnr Effiong, Bede Amarachi Osuji, Ninthoinganba Meetei Khumanthem, Muhammad Suhail F, Bikash Singh Sagolsem, Vishal Yadav, Ranjeet Singh Pandre
A Season of Consolidation and Ambition
As Punjab FC enter their third ISL season, the emphasis appears clear: continuity, youth integration and tactical balance. While they may not carry the financial weight of some established ISL heavyweights, their structure suggests a club comfortable in its identity.
The 2025–26 season will test whether that philosophy translates into consistent results. For Punjab FC, the objective is not merely participation it is progression.
And with a squad that blends development with experience, the Shers appear prepared for the next step in their ISL journey.
