Head Coach Juan Pedro Benali Signs Two-Year Contract Extension with NorthEast United FC

Synopsis

NorthEast United FC has extended head coach Juan Pedro Benali's contract for two more years, keeping him until the end of the 2026-27 season. Under his leadership, the team has achieved historic milestones, including their first Durand Cup title and a spot in the ISL playoffs.

Key Takeaways

Juan Pedro Benali signs a two-year extension with NorthEast United FC.
Benali joined in May 2023 and has led the team to significant achievements.
The club won its first major title, the Durand Cup.
NorthEast United FC returns to the ISL playoffs after four years.
Owner John Abraham praises Benali’s leadership and vision.

Shillong, March 22 (NationPress) The Indian Super League (ISL) team NorthEast United FC has finalized a new two-year contract extension with head coach Juan Pedro Benali, ensuring his presence at the club until the conclusion of the 2026-27 season, as announced by the club on Saturday.

Benali, who took charge in May 2023, has ushered in a transformative era for NorthEast United FC. His influence has been both immediate and significant, propelling the team to remarkable achievements.

During his initial season, he led the Highlanders to the semifinals of the historic Durand Cup and brought the club to within a single point of qualifying for the ISL playoffs, establishing a robust foundation for future endeavors.

This season has seen an impressive revival under Benali's guidance. The club marked a historic achievement by securing the Durand Cup title – the first major trophy in NorthEast United FC’s history.

“I have truly special feelings for this football club. Together with John and Mandar, we share a clear vision for the future of this club. After two seasons, I feel at home at NorthEast United FC, surrounded by this incredible group of players, the coaching staff, and everyone involved. We are one big family, progressing in the right direction, and together we can create something meaningful that our fans will cherish,” Juan stated.

Moreover, the team has earned a prestigious position in the Indian Super League (ISL) playoffs after a four-year absence, demonstrating significant advancements and meeting the hopes of supporters throughout the Northeast. The Highlanders concluded the ISL standings in fourth place and secured a ‘home advantage’ for the playoffs, where they will face Jamshedpur FC.

In response to this news, NorthEast United FC owner John Abraham commended Juan’s leadership and expressed his happiness regarding the manager’s decision to remain.

“I am thrilled that our head coach Juan Pedro Benali has committed to a new contract with the club. The manner in which Juan has developed this team is admirable, fueled by his relentless ambition for improvement and success. We have a vision for the club, and with Juan at the helm, we believe we can achieve something significant at NorthEast United FC,” Abraham remarked.