NorthEast United FC have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2026-27 season by signing Spanish forward Ethyan González on a one-year contract, with the club holding an option to extend the deal by an additional year.
The 24-year-old joins the Highlanders from Qatari club Muaither SC and becomes the club’s first foreign signing of the transfer window. His arrival bolsters NorthEast United’s attacking options as the team continues preparations for the upcoming campaign.
Born on June 6, 2002, in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands, González began his football journey with UD Cruz Santa before joining the CD Tenerife academy in 2014. After progressing through the youth ranks, he made his senior debut for Tenerife B in February 2021 and quickly announced himself by scoring twice against CD Vera. Less than three weeks later, he netted four goals in a single match against CD Buzanada, finishing his debut season with an impressive 14 goals in 16 appearances.
The 1.85-metre right-footed striker earned his senior debut for CD Tenerife in August 2021 before spending the 2022-23 season on loan with Atlético Madrid B. He later extended his contract with Tenerife until 2028 before continuing his career with Portuguese club Torreense and Qatari side Muaither SC. His career has taken him across Spain, Portugal and Qatar, with each move adding to his experience in different footballing environments.
Known as a traditional centre-forward with modern mobility, González brings physical presence, aerial ability, intelligent movement and hold-up play, qualities NorthEast United believe will strengthen their frontline.
Speaking after completing the move, González said, “I have travelled a long way to find this shirt, and I did not expect the road to lead here, but that is exactly why I am ready for it. I have always believed my next chance is my biggest one. This is that chance. I want to score goals for the team and give them a reason to stay loud.”
Head coach Juan Pedro Benali welcomed the signing, saying, “When you watch a striker, you look beyond the goals. You look at his movement, his understanding of the game and his willingness to work for the team. Ethyan has those qualities. He has already experienced different leagues in different countries at a young age, and every step has made him a better player. Now he comes to NorthEast United FC, where we expect him to keep improving and make a real impact for this club.”
Club CEO Mandar Tamhane described the signing as part of the club’s long-term recruitment strategy.
“Ethyan is exactly the kind of player we want to bring to NorthEast United FC. He is young, ambitious and already has experience across different football cultures. We believe in identifying players early and giving them the environment to continue growing. Our responsibility is to build an ecosystem where talented young footballers can develop, succeed and help the club move forward. We believe Ethyan has all the qualities to do that,” Tamhane said.
