NorthEast United FC has strengthened its squad ahead of the 2026-27 campaign by announcing contract extensions for defender Asheer Akhtar, goalkeeper Dipesh Chauhan and young defender Robin Yadav, as the club prepares to begin its season with the Durand Cup.

Robin Yadav has signed a new deal that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2026-27 season, with NorthEast United FC retaining an option to extend his stay by another year. Since joining the Highlanders in 2024, the Kolkata-born right-back has steadily established himself as an important member of Juan Pedro Benali’s squad through composed performances in defence.

Robin played a role in the club’s historic back-to-back Durand Cup triumphs in 2024 and 2025 before scoring his first competitive goal for NorthEast United FC against FC Goa during the 2025-26 Super Cup.

“I’m grateful for the trust the club has placed in me. Joining NorthEast United FC has helped me grow immensely as a player, and I’m excited to continue learning, improving and contributing to the team’s ambitions. We’ve shared some incredible moments already, and I’m determined to keep working hard to help bring more success to this club,” Robin said.

Experienced defender Asheer Akhtar has also committed his future by signing a one-year extension. Since arriving in 2023, Akhtar has become one of the club’s most reliable performers, playing a key role in consecutive Durand Cup title-winning campaigns. He also opened the scoring in the 2025 Durand Cup final, helping NorthEast United FC cruise to a memorable 6-1 victory over Diamond Harbour FC.

“I’m delighted to continue with NorthEast United FC. The last two seasons have been incredibly rewarding, and it’s been a privilege to be part of a group that has created history for this club. The faith shown in me means a lot, and I’ll continue to give my all, support my teammates in every situation and do everything I can to help the club achieve greater success,” Akhtar said.

Goalkeeper Dipesh Chauhan has signed a long-term contract that runs until the end of the 2028-29 season, with the agreement including a club option for a further two-year extension. Chauhan, who was recently part of the India Under-23 squad for the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers, said he is eager to continue his development with the club.

“I’m grateful to the club for the trust they have shown in me. Since arriving here, I’ve learned so much from the coaches, my teammates and everyone around the club. Every day is an opportunity to improve, and I’m excited to continue competing, developing and giving everything I have for NorthEast United FC. I’m looking forward to what we can achieve together in the years ahead,” Chauhan said.

The trio’s extensions come just days after Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie also committed his future to NorthEast United FC by signing a new two-year contract.