ISL 2024-25: Jamshedpur FC Team Preview – Full Squad, Key Players, New Signings, Strengths and Weaknesses

Jamshedpur FC, known as the pride of the steel city, has established a passionate fanbase and a strong presence at the JRD Tata Sports Complex. Their finest moment came during the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) season when they secured the League Winners’ Shield under the guidance of Owen Coyle.

However, the following two seasons were disappointing as the team finished tenth, missing out on the playoffs. Now, with Khalid Jamil assuming the full-time head coach role, Jamshedpur FC faces a crucial campaign as they aim to return to the top of Indian football.

Summer Transfer Window: Key Signings and Departures

Jamshedpur FC’s summer transfer window saw major reshuffling, with several important players departing. Daniel Chima Chukwu, Elsinho, TP Rehenesh, and Jeremy Manzorro were among those who exited, leaving a void in the squad. The club responded promptly, making significant signings that could shape their fortunes this season.

Returning striker Jordan Murray and defender Stephen Eze will add experience to the squad, while Javi Hernandez, with 21 goals and 16 assists in the ISL, brings creative flair to the midfield. Albino Gomes’ arrival as the new goalkeeper will help mitigate the loss of Rehenesh, and the addition of defender Lazar Cirkovic strengthens the defense. Ashutosh Mehta’s versatility and the promising youth duo of Mohammad Sanan and Imran Khan—both of whom impressed in the Durand Cup—round out a balanced mix of new recruits and established players.

Key Transfers In:

• Jordan Murray (Striker)
• Stephen Eze (Defender)
• Javi Hernandez (Midfielder)
• Albino Gomes (Goalkeeper)
• Lazar Cirkovic (Defender)
• Ashutosh Mehta (Right-back)
• Javier Siverio (Striker)
• Mohammad Sanan (Midfielder)
• Imran Khan (Midfielder)

Key Transfers Out:

• Daniel Chima Chukwu (Striker)
• Elsinho (Defender)
• TP Rehenesh (Goalkeeper)
• Jeremy Manzorro (Midfielder)

Jamshedpur FC Pre-Season Performance

The pre-season was a mixed bag for Jamshedpur FC, particularly their early exit from the Durand Cup. Despite victories over Assam Rifles and Chennaiyin FC, a disappointing loss to the Indian Army led to a group-stage elimination. This pre-season inconsistency exposed both strengths and weaknesses. Players like Sanan and Imran stepped up with strong performances, but injuries and defensive frailties were concerning, especially with the ISL looming.

The absence of Eze and Cirkovic in pre-season matches left the defense vulnerable, with Jamshedpur fielding an all-Indian back four comprising Wungngayam Muirang, Pratik Chaudhari, Uvais, and Ashutosh Mehta. As Eze and Cirkovic return for the regular season, head coach Khalid Jamil will be keen to resolve these defensive lapses before facing tough early fixtures.

Squad Depth: Improvements and Gaps

Compared to last season, Jamshedpur FC has improved its midfield and attack, largely thanks to the acquisitions of Javi Hernandez and the return of Jordan Murray. The midfield now looks more balanced with Sanan, Rei Tachikawa, and Pronay Halder providing a mix of youth, energy, and experience. Up front, Javier Siverio’s finishing and Murray’s versatility will give Jamil tactical flexibility.

However, concerns linger in defense. While the signings of Stephen Eze and Ashutosh Mehta are positive, the departure of TP Rehenesh and Elsinho has left gaps. New goalkeeper Albino Gomes will be under pressure to deliver, while depth in the backline remains questionable. The team’s ability to plug defensive holes could be the difference between a playoff push and another disappointing campaign.

Jamshedpur FC Full Squad for ISL 2024-25

Goalkeepers:

• Vishal Yadav
• Mohit Singh Dhami
• Ayush Jena
• Albino Gomes

Defenders:

• Uvais Mohammed
• Pratik Chaudhari
• Wungngayam Muirang
• Saphaba Singh Telem
• Stephen Eze
• Ashutosh Mehta
• Lazar Cirkovic

Midfielders:

• Imran Khan
• Nongdamba Naorem
• Germanpreet Singh
• Rei Tachikawa
• Pronay Halder
• Emil Benny
• Mohammad Sanan
• Javi Hernandez
• Jordan Murray

Forwards:

• Seimenlen Doungel
• Ritwik Das
• Javier Siverio
• Nikhil Barla
• Samir Murmu

Key Players to Watch for in Jamshedpur FC

Javi Hernandez is undoubtedly the star to watch this season. After a relatively quiet stint at Bengaluru FC, the creative midfielder has a point to prove. With his impressive record in the ISL, his ability to deliver assists, score goals, and dictate play from the center will be vital to Jamshedpur’s hopes.

Equally exciting is the emergence of 20-year-old Mohammad Sanan. The young midfielder showed immense promise in the Durand Cup, impressing with his composure, vision, and energy. His development this season could be crucial as Jamshedpur look to establish a dynamic and balanced midfield.

Potential Weaknesses

Defense remains a major concern for Jamshedpur FC. Despite the additions of Eze, Cirkovic, and Mehta, the backline lacks depth. Injuries or suspensions could expose vulnerabilities, and with a tough start to the season ahead, defensive stability will be crucial. Additionally, while Gomes is an experienced goalkeeper, he will need time to settle in after replacing Rehenesh.

Strengths of the Team

Jamshedpur FC’s key strength lies in their revamped midfield and attacking options for the 2024-25 season. The acquisition of Javi Hernandez, one of the league’s most creative midfielders, adds significant firepower in terms of goals and assists. With the return of Jordan Murray and the presence of Javier Siverio up front, the team has a versatile and dynamic attack capable of troubling any defense. Additionally, the midfield, bolstered by the emerging talent of Mohammad Sanan and the experienced Rei Tachikawa, offers a blend of youth, creativity, and stability, ensuring Jamshedpur can dominate possession and control the tempo in matches.

Predicted Best XI

Formation: 4-2-3-1

• Goalkeeper: Albino Gomes
• Defenders: Ashutosh Mehta, Stephen Eze, Pratik Chaudhari, Shubham Sarangi
• Midfielders: Rei Tachikawa, Mohammad Sanan, Javi Hernandez (Attacking Midfielder)
• Wingers: Imran Khan, Aniket Jadhav
• Forward: Javier Siverio

This lineup balances experience and youth, with Gomes providing reliability in goal. The defense, bolstered by Eze and Chaudhari, will aim to improve upon last season’s performances. In midfield, the creativity of Javi Hernandez will be pivotal in creating chances for Siverio and the pacy wingers.

Final Thoughts and Predictions

Jamshedpur FC has made strategic signings to address key areas in the squad, particularly in midfield and attack. Khalid Jamil’s coaching could be the X-factor in getting the best out of this team. However, the lack of defensive depth and pre-season inconsistencies raise concerns.

The opening fixtures, where they face last season’s top sides, will be a real test for the Men of Steel. If they can resolve their defensive issues quickly, a push for the playoffs is possible. However, a mid-table finish seems more realistic unless the backline can find greater stability.

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