Sakura could be a main character. Since it's Naruto returning to Konoha, Sakura, being his friend and a strong ninja in her own right, might play a big role. Maybe she's the one who first welcomes Naruto back and they team up to face any threats.
Well, it could be about Naruto coming back to Konoha with new powers. Maybe he's been on a long journey and is now ready to share his experiences and help protect the village again.
Iruka could also be important. Since he was one of the few people who showed some kindness to Naruto in the original story. He might feel guilty about Naruto leaving due to neglect and set out to find him. His presence could add an element of emotional depth to the story as he tries to make amends.
Sasuke could be one of the main characters. He might be initially skeptical or even hostile towards Naruto's mermaid side, but as the story unfolds, he could come to understand and support Naruto. Another character could be Sakura. She could use her medical ninjutsu skills to help Naruto if he gets injured during his underwater adventures.
Samul, of course, since he's Naruto's supposed father in this fanfic. He could be a powerful ninja who had some great influence in the past. Another character could be Naruto's mother, who might have a different story now considering her relationship with Samul. Also, characters like Jiraiya could still play an important role. He might be the one to guide Naruto in understanding his new identity as Samul's son and help him train to face the challenges that come with it.
Hinata is also a likely main character. In the original story, Hinata has a crush on Naruto. With Naruto being a smooth operator, he might notice Hinata's feelings more easily and their relationship could develop in a more romantic and interesting way. Kakashi could also be involved. Naruto could use his smoothness to learn new jutsu from Kakashi more effectively or to get Kakashi to trust him with more important missions.
Sasuke could be involved. He might either try to stop Naruto from leaving, believing that they should face whatever comes together in Konoha, or he could decide to join Naruto on his journey, as they have a deep bond.
Obviously Naruto has to be one of the main characters. He'd be the energetic and sometimes clumsy student who is always getting into trouble but has a heart of gold. Sakura would also be a main character, the smart and strong - willed girl who is often exasperated with Naruto's antics. And Sasuke, the cool and aloof student who has a mysterious past and is the object of many students' admiration.
The street kids themselves would be main characters. They could be a diverse group with different personalities and backstories. There might also be Naruto's friends like Sakura and Kakashi who could play important roles. Sakura could help with the kids' medical needs, and Kakashi could offer his wisdom in training the kids.
Kakashi could also be a main character. He could be the one who has to deal with Naruto's failure in a different way than Iruka. Maybe he has to decide if Naruto is worth another chance. Also, Sakura could be involved. She might initially be disappointed in Naruto but then realizes that there is more to Naruto's failure than meets the eye and tries to support him in her own way.
Urahara Kisuke would be a great addition. His mysterious nature and vast knowledge could either help or hinder Naruto. Yoruichi could also be a main character. Her cat - like abilities and combat skills would make for some exciting interactions with Naruto. She could teach Naruto some new moves or they could team up against a common enemy.