Bengaluru FC enter the ISL 2025/26 season with renewed belief and clear ambition after a strong campaign last year. The Blues finished 4th in the league phase and went all the way to the final, ending as runners-up in the playoffs, a run that restored confidence among fans and pundits alike.
With Indian coach Renedy Singh now at the helm and a more balanced squad in place, Bengaluru FC will be hoping to go one step further and seriously challenge for the ISL trophy this season.
Potential Starting XI [4-3-3]
Stability at the back remains one of Bengaluru FC’s biggest strengths going into ISL 2025/26. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu is expected to continue as the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, bringing leadership, experience, and reliability between the posts.
The defensive unit in front of him remains unchanged, with Nikhil Poojary and Roshan Singh Naorem operating as dynamic wing-backs, offering both defensive cover and attacking width.
At the heart of the defence, Rahul Bheke and Chinglensana Singh are likely to continue as the first-choice centre-back pairing. Their understanding, physicality, and ability to play out from the back provide Bengaluru FC with a solid foundation.
This settled backline gives Renedy Singh the tactical flexibility to push numbers forward without compromising defensive stability.
In midfield, the Blues have made key additions to address last season’s departures. Suresh Singh Wangjam will anchor the midfield with his energy, pressing, and ball-winning ability. Alongside him, new Uzbek signing Sirojiddin Kuziev is expected to play a crucial role, adding composure, physical presence, and progressive passing from central areas.
Further ahead, Argentine attacking midfielder Brian Sanchez is set to take up the No. 10 role. Sanchez will be tasked with linking midfield and attack, creating chances, and adding creativity in the final third. His arrival is seen as a direct response to the void left by Alberto Noguera, and much will depend on how quickly he adapts to the intensity of the Indian Super League.
Out wide, Bengaluru FC look far more settled compared to last season.
Ryan Williams is expected to continue on the right wing, offering pace, direct running, and goal threat.
On the left, the homecoming of Ashique Kuruniyan from Mohun Bagan SG finally solves a long-standing issue for the Blues. Last season, the absence of a natural left-winger forced Sunil Chhetri to play out wide in several matches, with multiple rotations tried but limited success.
Ashique’s return brings balance, width, and explosiveness on the left flank, allowing Chhetri to focus on his natural role. This change alone could significantly improve Bengaluru FC’s attacking structure and fluidity.
Up front, Sunil Chhetri is set to lead the line as the lone striker once again. Even at this stage of his career, Chhetri’s movement, finishing, and leadership remain invaluable to the team. Surrounded by pace and creativity on the wings and midfield support behind him, the Bengaluru FC captain will be central to the club’s title ambitions.
Conclusion
Overall, the potential Bengaluru FC lineup for ISL 2025/26 reflects continuity with smart reinforcement. With a settled defence, refreshed midfield, and improved wide options, the Blues will be aiming to finish in the top half of the league again and push strongly for silverware.
Under a familiar coach, Renedy Singh, this squad looks well-equipped to compete with the very best in the Indian Super League.
