GUWAHATI: “Some people believe football is a matter of life and death. I am very disappointed with that attitude. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that.” This iconic quote by Bill Shankly resonates deeply with football enthusiasts across the globe.
From the sunlit favelas of Brazil to the misty towns of Europe, football has always been more than just a sport—it is an identity, a culture, and a way of life. The same fervor and unyielding passion now pulse through the northeastern region of India, thanks to the inception of the NorthEast United Football Club (NEUFC).
While Europe boasts of footballing giants like Manchester United and Barcelona and Latin America thrives on its devotion to clubs like Flamengo FC, Newell’s Old Boys and Boca Juniors, India's love for the sport found a new rhythm with the birth of the Indian Super League (ISL) in 2014. Amidst this revolutionary wave, NEUFC emerged as a unique symbol of regional pride and representation. The club wasn’t just another team; it became a unifying force for the "Seven Sisters" states—Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura—along with Sikkim.
When John Abraham, the Bollywood star and a football enthusiast, co-founded NorthEast United FC, he had a clear vision: to build a club that reflected the raw talent and undying passion for football in the Northeast. It was a vision deeply rooted in the region’s love for the sport. Football isn’t new to this part of India; it’s woven into the social fabric. Towns and villages across the Northeast have long embraced the game, producing stellar players like Baichung Bhutia and Renedy Singh, whose exploits had already paved the way for the region to claim its place on the national footballing map. NEUFC became the torchbearer for continuing this legacy.
The club’s story began on a historic note, with its formation coinciding with the inaugural season of the ISL in 2014. NEUFC distinguished itself from other teams not just by representing a single city but an entire region—a concept unique to the Indian football ecosystem. The crest of NEUFC, featuring eight stars to signify the eight northeastern states, encapsulates the spirit of unity in diversity. The team quickly became more than a sports entity; it evolved into a cultural phenomenon, rallying fans under the mantra, "One team, one region."
However, like many legendary clubs around the world, NEUFC’s journey has been anything but linear. The initial seasons saw the team struggling to make an impact in the league. Despite their challenges, the Highlanders—NEUFC’s nickname—consistently showcased a fighting spirit that endeared them to fans. The ISL campaigns might not have always been filled with silverware, but they were rich in stories of resilience, grit, and the occasional moments of brilliance that reminded everyone of the potential brewing in the Northeast.
One of the defining moments in the club's history came during the 2018-19 season when NEUFC reached the ISL playoffs for the first time. Under the leadership of Dutch coach Eelco Schattorie, the team showcased not only impressive performances on the pitch but also the tactical discipline and flair reminiscent of global footballing giants.
Players like Federico Gallego and Bartholomew Ogbeche became fan favorites, lighting up Guwahati’s Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium with their brilliance. The club achieved another historic milestone by claiming its first-ever title in the 2024 Durand Cup. This victory symbolizes more than just a trophy—it reflects the resilience and unwavering determination of NorthEast United FC.
The club’s connection with its fans remains its most robust strength. In the initial seasons of ISL, the Matchdays in Guwahati were a spectacle, with thousands of fans filling the stands, draped in red, black, and white. The rhythmic chants, the beating of drums, and the unbridled energy create an electric atmosphere. However, over the years, attendance at matches in Guwahati experienced fluctuations.
For a couple of seasons, the number of fans dwindled, which was a concern for both the club and the league. Factors such as team performance and broader engagement strategies influenced this decline. Despite these challenges, recent trends indicate a resurgence in fan attendance. NEUFC isn’t just a team; it’s a movement that has successfully kindled hope and pride in a region often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
While the journey of NEUFC is still in its infancy compared to century-old clubs like Bayern Munich or River Plate, its potential to shape the future of Indian football is immense. The Northeast is a treasure trove of footballing talent, with young players often inspired by local heroes and the club’s exploits. The emergence of players like Apuia Ralte, who represented both NEUFC and the Indian national team, underscores the role the club plays in nurturing future stars.
“Football is simple. You play with your heart,” said the legendary Johan Cruyff. This philosophy lies at the core of NEUFC’s approach. Despite challenges on and off the field, the club’s unwavering commitment to its region and its people ensures that the Highlanders remain a symbol of hope and determination.
As the ISL grows and Indian football continues to evolve, NEUFC’s role as the flagbearer of the Northeast will remain pivotal. With each season, the club not only competes for glory but also strives to inspire a generation, proving that football is much more than a game—it’s a unifying force that transcends barriers. In the hills and valleys of the Northeast, the ball keeps rolling, and so does the story of NorthEast United FC—a tale of passion, pride, and the power of football to bring people together.
Written by: Harsha Hazarika
Insta ID: @harsha_hazarika
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