Indian Super League side NorthEast United FC are announcing a flurry of signings prior to the start of the ISL 2016. Their latest addition is Mohun Bagan hotshot and Japanese attacking midfielder Katsumi Yusa.
The Guwahati franchisee, who have not reached the top four in either of the two previous editions of the cash-rich football competition in India, are determined this time to provide a real challenge to the other teams in the competition and also lift the title.
India star goalkeeper Subrata Paul, who played for Mumbai City FC last season, has been signed up by the John Abraham co-owned side. Apart from Subrata, the likes of Jerry Mawihmingthanga, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Nirmal Chettri, Rowllin Borges, Shouvik Ghosh and Sumit Passi, have also been roped in.
The team have also taken abroad key Brazilian midfielder Manoel Morais Amorim and defender Mailson Alves from Chennaiyin FC. NorthEast United FC also announced the signing of Sergio Farias as their coach ahead of the third season of ISL.
"We are putting together a competitive squad. We have an experienced head coach with over 20 years of expertise in countries like Korea, Thailand, the UAE, China and Brazil. I think our fans deserve a good season for all the unconditional love and support that they have given us so far," said John Abraham to the official ISL website.
"We are ensuring that the squad is competitive enough and want to leave no stone unturned both on and off the pitch in ensuring that the atmosphere is conducive for Sergio and our players," he added.
Katsumi, 27, meanwhile, has been a vital part of Mohun Bagan in the last three seasons of the I-League. While the Japanese star midfielder helped the Kolkata giants in bagging their first I-League title last year, he remained a key figure for the Mariners during the AFC Cup 2016 as well as the I-League and the Federation Cup 2016.
