Inter Kashi FC are set to script a historic chapter as they prepare for their maiden Indian Super League (ISL) campaign in the 2025/26 season, following a sensational I-League title-winning run last year.
The Kashi Warriors arrive in India’s top-tier with momentum, belief, and a clear intent — not just to survive, but to compete. With a busy transfer window featuring smart foreign recruits and experienced domestic signings, Inter Kashi FC look well-equipped to make a strong first impression in the ISL.
Potential Starting XI [4-2-3-1]
At the heart of their setup, new Spanish signing Lluis Tarrés is expected to be the first-choice goalkeeper. The shot-stopper will be a unique presence in the league, becoming the only foreign goalkeeper in the ISL this season. His composure, distribution, and European experience could play a crucial role in helping Inter Kashi build from the back under pressure.
The defensive line blends fresh faces with leadership and familiarity. Nishchal Chandan is likely to slot in at right-back, while Nishu Kumar is expected to operate from the left side of defence, offering balance and width.
At centre-back, Spanish defender David Humanes is tipped to partner Narender Gahlot, who arrives from Odisha FC. Humanes is also expected to wear the captain’s armband, bringing calm authority, organisational strength, and leadership to a newly assembled ISL backline.
In midfield, Inter Kashi FC appear to have built a solid and versatile core. New Spanish recruit Sergio Llamas is likely to dictate the tempo alongside experienced Indian midfielder Jayesh Rane, forming a well-rounded central midfield partnership capable of both control and transition. Ahead of them, Haobam Tomba Singh is expected to play in the attacking midfield role, tasked with linking play, unlocking defences, and driving Inter Kashi’s creative output in the final third.
The wide areas bring pace, work rate, and directness. Former Jamshedpur FC winger Seiminlen Doungel could be deployed on the right flank, offering experience and goal threat, while former Bengaluru FC forward Rohit Danu is expected to operate from the left wing, providing energy and attacking intent. Together, the wingers will be key to stretching opposition defences and supporting the lone striker in transition-heavy phases of play.
Leading the line, Lithuanian international Nauris Petkevičius is expected to spearhead the attack. An active national team player, Petkevičius brings physical presence, movement inside the box, and finishing ability — qualities that could be decisive for a debutant side navigating the intensity of the ISL.
All of this comes together under the guidance of a familiar ISL name Antonio López Habas. Known for his pragmatic approach, tactical discipline, and title-winning pedigree in Indian football, Habas will be tasked with moulding this newly promoted side into a competitive and resilient unit capable of holding its own against established ISL heavyweights.
Conclusion
As Inter Kashi FC step onto the ISL stage for the very first time, the Kashi Warriors carry more than just the tag of newcomers — they arrive with confidence, clarity, and a carefully constructed squad built to compete from day one. With a balanced mix of European quality, proven Indian experience, and the steady hand of Antonio López Habas on the touchline, this debut season represents an opportunity to redefine expectations. Survival may be the immediate objective, but with momentum from their I-League triumph and a squad tailored for structure and intensity, Inter Kashi FC have every chance to surprise, disrupt, and announce themselves as a serious new force in Indian football.
