NorthEast United FC announced on Monday that rising midfield star Macarton Nickson has signed a long-term contract extension, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2028 season. The move comes after a breakthrough year for the 21-year-old, who has quickly become a key figure in the Highlanders’ squad.
Since making his first-team debut in the 2023–24 season, Macarton has racked up 43 appearances across all competitions. His most notable contribution came during the 133rd Durand Cup final, where he came off the bench at halftime to help orchestrate a remarkable turnaround. NorthEast United lifted the trophy — the first major piece of silverware in the club’s history — with Macarton playing a pivotal role in the second-half resurgence.
His performances on the domestic stage didn’t go unnoticed. The young midfielder scored his maiden Indian Super League (ISL) goal in a dominant 5-0 win over Jamshedpur FC. He followed that up with a goal and an assist in a 3-0 away triumph against Mumbai City, showcasing both composure and creativity in midfield.
“I feel grateful to be here, and I would like to stay here for a long time,” Macarton said following the announcement. “I’ve improved a lot under head coach Juan Pedro Benali and assistant coach Naushad Moosa in two years. I am sure under his and our coaching staff’s guidance, I would develop into a better player.”
Macarton’s progress has also caught the attention of the national selectors. He received his first senior India call-up for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Bangladesh in March 2025. He is currently part of the 29-member India U-23 squad preparing for exposure matches in Tajikistan later this month.
Head coach Juan Pedro Benali praised Macarton’s growth and potential, stating, “Macarton is a brilliant, fleet-footed midfielder who has grown immensely. It is pleasing to see how much he has matured and grown as a player, and I am delighted that he has extended his stay with NorthEast United FC. I cannot wait to see him become one of the most influential Indian midfielders.”
With his commitment secured and national recognition beginning to flow, Macarton Nickson’s journey from a promising talent to a central figure in Indian football appears firmly on track.
