This season, NorthEast United FC grabbed headlines after winning the Durand Cup, their first national-level trophy, and the Highlanders have managed to maintain their form quite well in the ISL. Currently sitting in sixth position, they are poised to qualify for the ISL Playoffs. While big names like Alaedinne Ajairae, Jithin MS, and Nestor Albiach have been widely credited for the team’s success, one name that has often gone under the radar is Macarton Louis Nickson.
Hailing from Karnataka, the 20-year-old midfielder has played a crucial role in NorthEast United’s strong campaign. With 2 goals and 1 assist in 17 appearances, Macarton has been a dominant presence in the midfield. Despite his lean physique, he never hesitates to go into challenges or duels, even against physically superior opponents.
Born to former Indian international footballer Lewis Nickson, Macarton never had to search for inspiration to fall in love with the sport. “Football is in my genes, to be honest,” Macarton said to RevSportz with a proud smile. “My father was an international footballer, and through him, both my brother and I became football players. During our childhood, we didn’t play any other games apart from football. It was in our blood, so choosing football as a career was very easy for me,”
While many of his friends had to focus primarily on academics, Macarton had the full support of his parents to pursue football. “They supported me a lot, unlike others who were pushed towards studies,” he said. “They allowed me to make my own decisions and encouraged me to play football.”
A product of Bengaluru FC’s youth academy, Macarton’s dream started turning into reality when he received a call-up to the national team’s youth squad. “Getting a call-up for the national team was a dream come true for me,” he recalled.
Macarton also had the opportunity to represent Indian Arrows in the I-League. The Indian Arrows project featured some of the country’s best U-19 footballers, giving them the chance to compete against senior teams. Macarton gained invaluable experience under the guidance of former Indian footballer and Arrows coach, Shanmugam Venkatesh. “Playing under Venkatesh sir was great for me,” he said. “He speaks the same language as me, and since he’s from Bangalore, he has been watching me play since childhood.”
A major turning point in Macarton’s career came when he earned an ISL contract with NorthEast United. This move was largely influenced by NorthEast United’s CEO, Mandar Tamhane, and assistant coach, Naushad Moosa—both of whom had previously been at Bengaluru FC and were familiar with Macarton’s potential. “Naushad Moosa sir, Mandar sir, and Rohit sir played a big role in bringing me here,” said Macarton. “Moosa sir explained the project to me and convinced me to take this step. I was really excited to join NorthEast United.”
Under head coach Juan Pedro Benali, Macarton has continued to develop, both as a player and as a person. “To me, he’s like a mentor, a father, and a friend,” said Macarton of the Spanish coach. “Off the field, he guides me on what’s right and what’s wrong and always pushes me in the right direction.”
He also credits the team’s strong unity for their success this season. “Compared to other teams, we have a lot of unity in our squad,” he said. “When there’s unity in a team, good results automatically follow.”
Macarton draws inspiration from some of the best in the game, both globally and in Indian football. “I look up to Luka Modric and Neymar—I really like these two players,” he shared. Closer to home, he admires FC Goa’s Brandon Fernandes. “I like the way he plays, so I look up to him too.”
At just 20, Macarton has already displayed immense potential. His ultimate dream is to follow in his father’s footsteps and represent India at the senior level. However, he remains patient and focused on gradual progress. “Playing for the national team is not easy,” he said. “I know I have to work much harder. If I get a call-up, I’ll give my best in the upcoming matches. It’s a tough challenge, but nothing is impossible.”
With his talent, determination, and the right guidance, Macarton Louis Nickson is undoubtedly a player to watch for the future.
Also Read: A RevSportz Exclusive || Alaaeddine Ajaraie: ‘Madih Talal is a Big Player, I Can’t Wait to Face Him!