Six Players to Watch in MPL 2025-26

by FC November 25, 2025

As the Mumbai Premier League (MPL) gears up for its 2025-26 season, the battle on the pitch will be shaped by a mix of returning MPL Players and high-profile signings fresh from the national circuit.

This season sees an exceptional influx of talent, with players who have honed their skills in the I-League and even the ISL choosing to ply their trade in the Mumbai City’s top division. Their presence guarantees a thrilling, quality-driven campaign.

Here are six pivotal players whose performances might define the success of their respective teams.

The Big Signings: National Experience Returns Home

1. Saurabh Meher (Hope United FC)
   The signing of Saurabh Meher is a massive statement of intent for Hope United FC, especially under the new tenure of coach Adil Khan. At just 25, Meher already possesses a veteran’s CV. He was a key figure in the India U-16 team that were SAFF runners-up and was part of the esteemed AIFF Elite Academy batch preparing for the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup.

His senior career includes spells with Chennaiyin FC Reserves, Indian Arrows in the I-League, and a debut for Odisha FC in the ISL (2020-21). Having most recently featured for I-League sides like Gokulam Kerala FC, Sreenidi Deccan, and Real Kashmir, Meher brings top-level discipline and versatility. He is expected to be a key figure in Hope United’s defensive structure and midfield balance.

2. Arif Shaikh (MYJ FC)
   A major name in Mumbai football circles, Arif Shaikh makes a much-anticipated return to his home turf with MYJ FC. Shaikh’s explosive potential first made headlines when he led the goal-scoring charts for the formidable Ambernath-Atlanta FC in the then MDFA Elite Division (currently MPL).

His recent two-season stint in Bangalore with SC Bengaluru was highly successful, where he was integral to their journey from the BDFA Super Division to the I-League. MYJ FC has secured his signature for both their MPL and upcoming I-League 2 campaign.

3. Dhruvmil Pandya (Mumbay FC)
   Under the tactical guidance of the new Belgian coach Steve Herbots, Mumbay FC will rely on Dhruvmil Pandya to anchor their midfield. Pandya arrives with recent experience from the I-League, having played with Neroca FC, I-League 3 with Jaipur Elite FC and Santosh Trophy with Haryana State Team. His role will be crucial and executing Herbots’ technical strategies. His composure and experience at the national level make him the perfect engine room player for a young, ambitious Mumbay FC side.

The Goal-Scorers: Consistency and Flair

4. Arfat Ansari (IOT FC)
   The defending champions, IOT FC, secured the retention of Arfat Ansari for a consecutive season for a very simple reason: guaranteed goals. As a veteran striker in the MPL, Arfat was the leading-scorer for IOT FC during their historic title-winning campaign, netting 14 goals and finishing as the joint third top scorer overall. In a season defined by new defensive stability across the league, Arfat’s clinical finishing and experience leading the line will be the most potent weapon for IOT FC as they aim to defend their crown.
5. Shoaib Baig (Kalina Rangers)
   A player who translates pure flair into solid output, Hailing from the competitive futsal scene across city, his agility and close-control dribbling skills are magic near the penalty box. Shoaib was ever-reliable for Kalina Rangers last season, bagging 13 crucial goals. His ability to find the net under pressure makes him the most critical player for Kalina Rangers.
6. Sachin Bangera (Mumbai Ultras)
   One of the hottest names in the Mumbai Super League last season, Sachin Bangera is ready to make the jump to the top tier again with with Mumbai Ultras. Known as a prolific goal-scoring winger and a sublime dribbler, Bangera’s talent was snapped up by Mumbai Ultras after his previous team, Brothers WA, finishing just short of promotion. His background in the Mumbai Futsal scene equips him with the pace and trickery to unbalance any MPL defense. Under coach Albinus Chettiar, Bangera represents the next generation of Mumbai talent set to explode onto the premier stage.

The 2025-26 MPL season promises to be a showcase for these game-changers. Whether it is the tested experience of Meher and Shaikh or the local goal-scoring might of Shoaib and Bangera, these six players will undoubtedly dominate headlines as they strive to push their respective clubs to glory.

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