Mumbai City FC enter the Indian Super League 2025/26 season at a crucial crossroads, looking to put behind a campaign that didn’t quite live up to their lofty standards. Finishing 6th in the league phase last season and suffering a shocking 5–0 knockout exit in the playoffs, the Islanders were left bruised and searching for answers after failing to reach the semi-finals.
The challenge this time is even steeper. Mumbai City have parted ways with several core pillars of their recent success including Mehtab Singh, Tiri, Bipin Singh, Yoell van Nieff, and Jon Toral. These exits have forced the club into a soft rebuild, one that leans heavily on youth, Indian depth, and a few carefully chosen reinforcements.
Potential Starting XI [4-3-3]
At the heart of the setup, Phurba Lachenpa is expected to continue as the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. His consistency and experience in the ISL make him a key stabilising figure for a backline that will otherwise look very different this season.
Defensively, Mumbai City could deploy an all-Indian unit, highlighting a clear shift in philosophy. New signing Dhruv Alva is likely to slot in as the right-back, while Akash Mishra, returning after missing last season through injury, brings pace and balance on the left.
With departures in central defence, Hmingthanmawia Ralte a.k.a Valpuia is expected to shift into a centre-back role alongside new recruit Bijay Chhetri, forming a youthful but energetic pairing.
The midfield is where Mumbai’s transition becomes most evident. New signing Lalnuntluanga Bawitlung could partner former reserves standout Franklin Nazareth, giving the Islanders an all-Indian central midfield packed with hunger and potential. Just ahead of them, Brandon Fernandes is set to operate in his natural No.10 role, tasked with creativity, tempo control, and linking midfield to attack.
Out wide, quality and continuity remain. Club captain Lallianzuala Chhangte continues on the right wing, where his pace, leadership, and direct goal threat remain indispensable. On the opposite flank, Spanish winger Jorge Ortiz is expected to provide width, flair, and attacking balance on the left.
Leading the line is a familiar face, Jorge Pereyra Díaz returns home from Bengaluru FC to spearhead the attack as the centre-forward. His movement, finishing, and understanding of the club’s philosophy could be vital as Mumbai City look to rediscover their cutting edge.
Overall, this potential Mumbai City FC lineup for ISL 2025/26 reflects a clear reset. An all-Indian defence and midfield, several young players stepping into key roles, and a blend of experience in attack underline a season that could define the club’s short-term future.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the ISL 2025/26 season feels like a defining moment for Mumbai City FC. Not about instant dominance, but about rediscovering identity. With a youthful, largely Indian core stepping into responsibility and proven leaders like Phurba Lachenpa, Brandon Fernandes, Chhangte and Pereyra Díaz guiding the transition, the Islanders are embracing a bold reset rather than clinging to the past. Success may not be measured purely in silverware this time, but in growth, cohesion, and belief. If this new-look Mumbai City side clicks, this crossroads could mark the beginning of their next great cycle rather than the end of a golden one.
