Federico Gallego, or “Gallego” as fans lovingly call him, is a Uruguayan attacking midfielder born in Montevideo on June 13, 1990. He might not have been a household name globally, but in the Indian Super League (ISL), he left a real mark—especially with NorthEast United FC, where he became something of a cult hero. He first landed in India in 2018 from Boston River, joining NorthEast United.
Right from the start, he clicked. He scored on his debut against FC Goa and struck up a brilliant partnership with Bartholomew Ogbeche up front. That season, he chipped in with four goals and five assists, helping the Highlanders reach the playoffs for the first time ever. Tragedy struck in the semi-final against Bengaluru FC when a bad injury cut his campaign short, but his flair and vision had already won over the fans.
He bounced back in the 2020-21 season, playing 16 games and notching four goals plus six assists—leading the league in chances created. NorthEast United finished third, their best-ever position, and supporters started calling him the “King of the Highlands.” Knee problems kept coming back, though, limiting him in later years.
In early 2023, he made a short move to Mohun Bagan Super Giant, mostly coming off the bench but still helping them win the ISL Cup that season—a nice trophy to end his Indian chapter on. Overall in the ISL, Gallego made around 59 appearances (mostly with NorthEast), scoring nine goals and providing 12 assists.
After heading back to Uruguay for stints with clubs like Sud América and Deportivo Villa Española, he announced his retirement in December 2025 at age 35, calling his time in India one of the most life-changing parts of his career.
We at Field Vision had the opportunity to interact with the ISL Superstar post announcing his retirement, and the transcript of the interview is as follows
1. What prompted you to finally hang up your boots?
What really prompted me to stop playing was the opportunity to start a new role in a good place, as an assistant coach to a former manager I had worked with last year. I know how he works, and I like his playing philosophy and his characteristics. After thinking about it a lot with my family and myself, I believed it was the right time to end my playing career, and luckily I wasn’t wrong.
2. After an illustrious career, you arrived at the Deportivo Maldonado bench as a coach. What was the experience like, and what does the future hold for Fede Gallego?
That’s exactly right. We started three months ago at the club in the second division here in Uruguay, and luckily, we were able to reach the end of the season, qualifying for the playoffs, winning the semifinals, and then the finals against our classic rival, thus promoting the club to the first division. The experience was very positive and enriching; we formed a great team that gave us great satisfaction. Now, on January 5th, we begin the new season in the top tier of Uruguayan football with many challenges and dreams ahead.
3. Have you been following the events happening in Indian football (ISL not starting, Messi’s visit)? What are your thoughts on it?
Yes, I do follow it, and I’m aware of everything that’s happening. Regarding the league, what’s going on is truly sad. I empathize with the footballers, who are the main protagonists of this sport, and what they’re experiencing right now without competition and with the uncertainty of their near future is very difficult, knowing that these are problems outside of football. My only fervent wish is that everything gets resolved soon and football starts up again quickly, because the ball must keep rolling for the benefit of so many people: footballers, coaches, journalists, staff, fans, etc.
4. Former NEU coach Khalid Jamil is now managing the national team. What are your thoughts on this, and how can the national team improve?
I’ve seen that he’s taken charge of the national team and I’ve followed their games. I’m very happy for him and his staff. I know he’s a hard worker and truly loves football; he’s been very successful with his clubs and earned the opportunity to be there now. I hope he can improve the team and make it competitive. With the current league situation and the lack of competition, his job is really difficult. They need to play, to compete, and the more that happens, the better the team will be.
5. You were a player with a huge fan base across India. Could we see you back in India? Perhaps as a coach?
I hope so, I hope the opportunity arises. I have a deep connection and affection for India and a desire to return someday in a new role. Indian football has a lot of room for improvement and I would like to contribute to that.
6. A message for your many fans in India.
Thank you, as always. They are always there for me, every step of the way. They send me messages and videos on social media, showing me all their love, and that’s priceless. My connection with you, as a country, grows stronger every day; a baby girl is on the way, and her name will be Indira.
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