After making a dramatic late push into the Indian Super League (ISL) playoffs last season, Chennaiyin FC fell short this time, ending the 2024-25 campaign in 11th place. Struggling with inconsistency and a lack of intensity, the Marina Machans failed to secure a top-six finish for the fourth time in five years—an unusual dip from their usual league standards.
Owen Coyle assembled a squad filled with match-winners, featuring seasoned foreign players with prior ISL success and talented Indian prospects capable of delivering standout performances. However, despite their potential, they still finished outside the playoff spots.
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A Season of Inconsistency and Missed Opportunities
Chennaiyin FC began their campaign on a high note with a crucial victory over Odisha FC at the Kalinga Stadium, ending the hosts’ unbeaten home streak from the previous season. However, their momentum quickly faded as they failed to win any of their next three matches, suffering defeats to newcomers Mohammedan Sporting Club and NorthEast United FC, along with a draw against Hyderabad FC. This early slump set the stage for a challenging season for Owen Coyle and his team.
The Marina Machans remained unpredictable throughout the campaign, delivering inconsistent performances. While the two-time ISL Cup winners convincingly defeated Jamshedpur FC in both legs, they struggled against top-six opponents, failing to secure a single win against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, FC Goa, Bengaluru FC, and Mumbai City FC across their encounters.
Despite a late resurgence with a commanding away victory over East Bengal FC, Chennaiyin’s hopes were once again dashed by crucial losses to Bengaluru FC and NorthEast United FC, ultimately sealing their fate outside the playoff spots.
Bright Sparks: Youthful Energy and Emerging Talent
Chennaiyin FC’s U23 players were a major positive this season, significantly influencing the team’s performances. The club’s young Indian contingent amassed 6,225 minutes on the pitch—the fourth-highest in the league—while also contributing 12 goal involvements, the joint-second most among all teams.
Owen Coyle, renowned for developing young talent, played a crucial role in Irfan Yadwad’s breakout campaign. After struggling for game time last season, the Indian forward stepped up as a match-winner, delivering vital goals and demonstrating his all-round ability on the field.
Defensive Frailties and Home Struggles
Chennaiyin FC’s defensive issues continued to haunt them, as they managed just four clean sheets all season—the second-lowest tally in the league. Their inability to hold onto leads was a major concern, with the team dropping 11 points from winning positions, further highlighting their vulnerability at the back.
Once a fortress, the Marina Arena failed to provide the same advantage this season. Chennaiyin FC struggled on home turf, securing only three victories—their second-worst home record in league history.
Connor Shields: Chennaiyin FC’s Creative Engine
Connor Shields was the heartbeat of Chennaiyin FC’s attack, displaying exceptional vision, precise ball distribution, and an unmatched work rate. The Scottish playmaker dictated the tempo from midfield, carving open defences with his incisive passing, orchestrating attacking sequences, and tirelessly winning back possession.
Shields registered eight assists in the ISL 2024-25 season, equaling Rafael Crivellaro’s club record (2019-20) for the most in a single campaign. Additionally, he created 76 chances—the highest ever by a player in a single ISL season—surpassing Greg Stewart’s record of 65 from 2021-22, cementing his status as Chennaiyin’s standout performer.
Irfan Yadwad: Chennaiyin FC’s Rising Star
Irfan Yadwad emerged as a key figure in Chennaiyin FC’s attack this season, proving to be a consistent and dynamic presence up front. The 23-year-old forward featured in 24 matches, clocking 1,955 minutes on the field and making a significant impact.
Yadwad registered nine goal contributions in the 2024-25 season—the highest by an Indian player for Chennaiyin FC in an ISL league stage, surpassing Jeje Lalpekhlua’s eight from 2017-18. His four assists rank third among Indian players in a single season for the Marina Machans, behind Anirudh Thapa (5 in 2019-20) and Aakash Sangwan (5 in 2022-23).
Additionally, Yadwad’s ability to draw fouls frustrated defenders throughout the campaign. He won 62 fouls—the most by any Indian player in a single ISL season and the third-highest overall during the 2024-25 league stage—highlighting his ability to trouble opposition defences with his movement and skill.
Key Areas for Improvement in 2025/26
Chennaiyin FC must focus on strengthening their team cohesion and defensive structure if they are to reclaim their past glory. One of their biggest weaknesses this season was at full-back, where inconsistency and injuries to Ankit Mukherjee and Laldinliana Renthlei disrupted the team’s stability. Addressing this issue by adding depth and quality in wide defensive areas will be crucial.
While Connor Shields was the creative heartbeat of Chennaiyin FC’s attack, he often found himself isolated against tightly marked opposition. To improve their attacking fluidity, the Marina Machans need to recruit a playmaker of similar calibre—someone who can complement Shields and ease the creative burden, ensuring a more dynamic and unpredictable offensive approach.
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FAQs
Why did Chennaiyin FC finish 11th in the ISL 2024/25 season?
Chennaiyin FC struggled with inconsistency, defensive frailties, and a poor home record, leading to a disappointing 11th-place finish.
Who was Chennaiyin FC’s best player in the 2024-25 ISL season?
Connor Shields stood out as the team’s creative force, registering eight assists and creating a record-breaking 76 chances.
Which young player impressed the most for Chennaiyin FC?
Irfan Yadwad had a breakthrough season, contributing nine goals and assists, surpassing Jeje Lalpekhlua’s record for most goal involvements by an Indian in a single league stage.
What were Chennaiyin FC’s biggest weaknesses this season?
Defensive instability, particularly in the full-back positions, and a lack of attacking support for Shields were major issues.
What does Chennaiyin FC need to improve for the next season?
The team must reinforce its defense, find a reliable full-back pairing, and add another creative playmaker to ease Shields’ burden in attack.
