How Chennaiyin FC could line up in ISL 2023-24

The Marina Machans have a lot of critics to prove wrong in the upcoming season.

Chennaiyin FC are on the road to redemption. The Indian Super League outfit has been out of contention for the league title in the last few seasons. This period has been difficult for the club’s fans who grew accustomed to success in the top-tier competition of the country.

Chennaiyin FC are two-time Indian Super League champions, however, their last few seasons have been underwhelming. For instance, the club finished in eighth place in the 2022-23 season, outside the playoff contention. In order to bring success back to the club and become a genuine contender for the trophy, Owen Coyle has been re-appointed.

The experienced tactician will play a crucial role in helping the club achieve its seasonal objectives in the new season. To that end, the outfit has made key signings and this is how Chennaiyin FC can lineup in the 2023-24 season of the Indian Super League:

GK - Samik Mitra

Samik Mitra is expected to hold his place in the goalkeeper’s position. The custodian was the first choice in the 2023 Durand Cup and gave a good account of himself. It will be interesting to see the 22-year-old in action.

RB - Sachu Siby

Sachu Siby is young and full of ambition. He is likely the first-choice player for the right-back position. His performances in the recent 2023 Durand Cup were impressive which help his claim to the spot in the lineup.

CB - Bikash Yumnam

Bikash Yumnam had an impressive 2023 Durand Cup for Chennaiyin FC. The centre-back scored against FC Goa and forged a strong partnership with Sarthak Golui. 

CB - Sarthak Golui

Sarthak Golui has accumulated a lot of experience at the top level and is set to partner with Bikash Yumnam in the centre-back role. There will be a lot of responsibility on the shoulders of the 25-year-old who has amassed over 65 appearances in the ISL.

LB - Aakash Sangwan

Aakash Sangwan became a fan favourite last season at Chennaiyin FC with his sensational performances in the left-back position. The full-back showed incredible ambition going forward and made an impact with his crossing ability. He is one to watch out for in the upcoming ISL edition.

CM - Jiteshwor Singh

Jiteshwor Singh is one of the most exciting midfielders in Indian football who possesses a lot of qualities that help him in the role. His calmness on the ball and aggressiveness without it makes him a favourite to start in the centre of the midfield.

CM - Cristian Battocchio

Cristian Battocchio is one of the new recruits at Chennaiyin FC. The midfielder from Italy brings a lot of experience to the side. Replacing Julius Duker will be a tough task for the 31-year-old.

CAM - Rafael Crivellaro

Rafael Crivellaro is back at Chennaiyin FC after spending a part of the previous season at Jamshedpur. The former skipper of the Marina Machans will be crucial to the side’s success in the upcoming season. His creativity and quality from set-pieces will be central to how CFC performs in the attacking department.

RW - Jordan Murray

Jordan Murray was the first foreign signing at Chennaiyin FC ahead of the 2023-24 season. He is a key player for the side who will play a major role in the club’s hopes of scoring a lot of goals. The former Kerala Blasters FC forward can play in multiple positions in attack. He can start on the right wing to accommodate Connor Shields or take the field in the striker role if the situation demands it.

LW - Vincy Barretto

Chennaiyin FC have several exciting Indian wingers on the roster. One can see a lot of rotation at the wing-forward position. Vincy Barretto is one of the favourites to start in this role due to his performances in the 2023 Durand Cup. Notably, he scored the winner against Delhi FC in the group stages.

ST - Connor Shields

Connor Shields is a newcomer in the Indian Super League. Chennaiyin FC have signed the Scottish striker to bolster their attacking department. The former Motherwell SC player has also featured for sides like Sunderland and Aldershot in England. The Scottish connection with Owen Coyle (since they were at the same club last season) may end up creating a solid partnership which could lead to a lot of goals for CFC if things go according to plan.