As Chennaiyin FC embarks on the 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) campaign, there’s a palpable sense of excitement among the fans. For the first time in four seasons, the Marina Machans are heading into the new season under the same head coach—Owen Coyle, a move that signals stability and continuity.
With a bolstered squad featuring key domestic and international signings, the team is poised to aim higher this season after a notable playoff run last year. Let’s dive into the team’s roster, new arrivals, strengths, weaknesses, and what fans can expect this season.
Summer Transfer Window: Significant Moves
Chennaiyin FC was proactive during the transfer window, addressing crucial gaps in both the defensive and attacking areas. Among the most noteworthy additions are Brazilian midfielder Lukas Brambilla and strikers Daniel Chima Chukwu and Wilmar Jordan Gil, who bring ISL experience and firepower to the attack. On the domestic front, the club made several smart signings, including versatile left-backs Mandar Rao Dessai and Vignesh Dakshinamurthy, right-back Dinliana, and young midfielders Jitendra Singh and Lalrinliana Hnamte.
Key Transfers In:
- Lukas Brambilla (Midfielder)
- Daniel Chima Chukwu (Striker)
- Wilmar Jordan Gil (Striker)
- Mandar Rao Dessai (Left-back)
- Jitendra Singh (Midfielder)
- Lalrinliana Hnamte (Midfielder)
Key Transfers Out:
- Aakash Sangwan (Left-back)
- Rahim Ali (Striker)
- Jordan Murray (Striker)
- Ayush Adhikari (Midfielder)
These transfers, particularly in the defensive and midfield areas, have added depth to the squad. The club also secured contract extensions for key players like captain Ryan Edwards, Connor Shields, and Bikash Jairu, ensuring continuity from last season’s impressive playoff run.
Strengths: Depth and Versatility
One of the primary strengths of Chennaiyin FC this season is their defensive depth. Unlike previous seasons, where the team struggled with reliable full-back options, the Marina Machans now have proven players in both the left-back and right-back positions. The signings of Mandar Rao Dessai and Dinliana, along with the retention of Ankit Mukherjee, ensure that Owen Coyle has ample choices in defense.
Additionally, the midfield appears well-rounded with the likes of Jiteshwor Singh, Jitendra Singh, and the versatile Hnamte offering defensive stability and attacking flexibility. Brazilian midfielder Lukas Brambilla adds creative flair, providing the team with goal-scoring potential and assists from the midfield.
In attack, the arrivals of ISL-proven strikers Daniel Chima Chukwu and Wilmar Jordan Gil give the team more firepower than in recent seasons. Gurkirat Singh and Kiyan Nassiri, two of India’s most promising young forwards, also add a youthful edge to the team’s frontline.
Weaknesses: Attacking Cohesion and Flank Depth
Despite significant improvements, Chennaiyin’s squad is not without potential weak points. One concern is the lack of depth in natural wingers. While Vincy Barretto and Farukh Choudhary offer width, the team lacks seasoned backup options for the flanks. This could put pressure on the team’s overall balance, especially if injuries come into play.
Another area of concern is the cohesion in attack. While Daniel Chima and Wilmar Jordan are proven goal scorers, it remains to be seen how well they will gel with the rest of the team. During preseason matches, the team struggled to score in crucial games, highlighting the need for better coordination up front.
Key Players to Watch
Kiyan Nassiri
The young striker, who made headlines with his hat-trick in the Kolkata Derby, is one of the most exciting talents to watch this season. Having joined from Mohun Bagan, Kiyan is expected to flourish under the guidance of Owen Coyle, especially with more game time. He will likely play a versatile role, either on the wing or as a secondary striker.
Daniel Chima Chukwu
Reuniting with his former coach Owen Coyle, the Nigerian forward will have a point to prove. Criticism regarding his fitness and finishing has followed him, but Chima’s tendency to peak in the latter half of the season could make him a crucial player as the campaign progresses.
Lukas Brambilla
The Brazilian midfielder, fresh from a stint in the Cypriot first division, brings creativity and playmaking ability to the squad. His performances in preseason have shown glimpses of what he can offer, and he is expected to be the key link between midfield and attack.
Preseason Performance: Mixed Results
Chennaiyin FC’s preseason offered a blend of highs and lows. While the reserves failed to progress in the Durand Cup, the first team showed promise in the Goa Football Association’s Bandodkar Trophy. A 4-1 victory against Churchill Brothers was the standout performance, but subsequent losses against Odisha and Defence y Justicia raised concerns about the team’s scoring capability.
Despite these setbacks, Owen Coyle emphasized that preseason results are secondary to gaining match fitness and preparing for the season ahead. The coach believes that with the right lineup and strategies, the team will be able to perform better once the ISL kicks off.
Chennaiyin FC Full Squad for ISL 2024-25
Goalkeepers:
- Mohammad Nawaz
- K Mohanraj
- Samik Mitra
Defenders:
- Mandar Rao Dessai
- Laldinpuia
- Elsinho Dias
- RS Preyarhanjan
- Ankit Mukherjee
- Ryan Edwards
- Bikash Yumnam
Midfielders:
- Lalrinliana Hnamte
- Lukas Brambilla
- Jitendra Singh
- Nesta J B Colin
- Yumkhaibam Jiteshwor Singh
- Farukh Choudhary
Forwards:
- Daniel Chima Chukwu
- Wilmar Jordan Gil
- Gurkirat Singh
- Kiyan Nassiri
- Irfan Yadwad
- Vincy Baretto
- Connor Shields
Predicted Best XI
Formation: 4-3-3
- Goalkeeper: Mohammad Nawaz
- Defenders: Mandar Rao Desai, Ryan Edwards (Captain), Dinpuia, Dinliana
- Midfielders: Jiteshwor Singh, Connor Shields, Lukas Brambilla
- Wingers: Kiyan Nassiri, Farukh Choudhary
- Striker: Daniel Chima Chukwu/Wilmar Jordan Gil
Final Thoughts and Predictions
Chennaiyin FC’s 2024-25 season holds immense promise, especially with Owen Coyle at the helm and a significantly improved squad. With depth in defense, creativity in midfield, and firepower in attack, the Marina Machans could be serious contenders for the ISL playoffs once again. While some challenges remain, particularly in terms of attacking cohesion and wing depth, the new-look team is undoubtedly stronger than last year, giving fans plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the season ahead.
When is Chennaiyin FC’s first match of the ISL 2024-25 season?
Chennaiyin FC play Odisha FC on Saturday, 14th September from 5 pm onwards away from home.
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