FC Goa will enter the ISL 2025/26 season with some unfinished business. After a remarkable 2024/25 campaign where the Gaurs finished 2nd in the league phase and reached the playoffs semi-finals, the club now look determined to take that final step and lift the Indian Super League trophy. With smart reinforcements adding depth and balance, FC Goa’s potential lineup looks well-equipped to challenge at the very top once again.
Potential Starting XI [4-2-3-1]
Hrithik Tiwari is expected to continue as the man between the sticks after producing several impressive performances last season. The young goalkeeper’s composure and shot-stopping ability made him one of the breakout Indian players in ISL 2024/25, and continuity here gives Goa a strong foundation.
In defence, FC Goa are likely to deploy a similar four-man backline with attacking wing-backs. Boris Singh Thangjam and Aakash Sangwan should operate as wing-backs, providing width, energy, and overlapping runs on both flanks. At the heart of defence, club captain Sandesh Jhingan will once again marshal the backline, partnering with the new Spanish signing Pol Moreno, whose European experience and ball-playing ability add a fresh dimension to Goa’s defensive structure.
In central midfield, Sahil Tavora remains a key figure, offering tactical discipline, ball recovery, and leadership. Alongside him, new signing Harsh Patre is expected to bring youthful energy, progressive passing, and box-to-box presence, giving FC Goa a more dynamic midfield duo.
A major tactical shift could see Serbian midfielder Dejan Dražić operate in the No. 10 role this season. With Borja Herrera’s departure leaving a creative void, Dražić’s vision, shooting from distance, and ability to link midfield and attack make him a natural fit to orchestrate Goa’s attacking play.
On the wings, continuity remains the theme. Udanta Singh Kumam is set to continue on the right wing, using his pace and direct running to stretch defences. On the left, the highly talented Brison Fernandes will once again be trusted to deliver creativity, dribbling, and end product, further cementing his importance in the Goa attack.
Leading the line as the lone striker is the homecoming signing Ishan Pandita. Known for his intelligent movement and finishing inside the box, Pandita’s return adds a different profile up front and could be the missing piece in FC Goa’s push for silverware.
Beyond the starting XI, FC Goa have significantly strengthened their squad depth. The additions of Ronney Wilson, Raynier Fernandes, Jerry Lalrinzuala, Abdul Rabeeh, and Daniel Lalhlimpuia provide quality backups across multiple positions. This depth will be crucial in such a congested and competitive ISL season, especially with rotation, injuries, and suspensions in play.
Conclusion
All signs point towards a season where FC Goa are ready to compete for the title. With a settled core, smart recruitment, and a blend of experience and emerging Indian talent, the Gaurs appear more balanced and mature than ever before. The hunger from last season’s near-miss, combined with tactical flexibility and improved squad depth, gives this side a genuine title-winning feel. If the pieces click and consistency follows, ISL 2025/26 could finally be the campaign where FC Goa turn belief into glory and end their long wait for the ultimate prize.
