How Hyderabad FC could line up in ISL 2023-24

Hyderabad FC will be setting up in a new way in ISL 2023-24.

Hyderabad FC are preparing for another exciting season in the Indian Super League (ISL), and fans are eagerly looking forward to the team's performance on the field. The team has undergone several changes during summer, including the departure of head coach Manolo Marquez, who joined rivals FC Goa, and the transfer of star player like Akash Mishra to the star-studded Mumbai City FC in return of a significant transfer fee and full-back Vignesh Dakshinamurthy. Additionally, Bartholomelew Ogbeche left the club after his contract expired.

To fill these vacancies, the club has appointed Thangboi Singto as the new head coach and welcomed Irishman Conor Nestor as the first team coach. Hyderabad FC have also made several quality player acquisitions to strengthen their squad.

In this article, we will take a closer look at how the Nizams can line up this term.

Goalkeeper: Gurmeet Singh

Gurmeet Singh is expected to be the man guarding the posts for Hyderabad FC in the upcoming season. The 23-year-old Indian goalkeeper has showcased his shot-stopping abilities and composure under pressure in previous campaigns. Gurmeet's strong reflexes and commanding presence in the box make him a reliable option between the sticks. His consistent performances in the ISL have earned him national call-ups quite a few times now.

Centre-Back: Alex Saji

Alex Saji, the Kerala-born defender, complements the defence with his versatility and technical ability. While primarily a centre-back, Alex can also play as a right-back if needed. His ability to build from the back and make accurate long passes adds an extra dimension to Hyderabad FC's playing style. Alex's composure on the ball and positional awareness make him a valuable asset to the squad.

Centre-Back: Chinglensana Singh

Chinglensana Singh, commonly known as Sana, is a crucial part of Hyderabad FC's defensive setup. The  Manipuri defender has established himself as a strong and reliable centre-back in the ISL. His physicality, aerial prowess, and ability to read the game make him a formidable presence in defence. Sana's consistency in winning duels and making crucial interceptions often disrupts opposition attacks.

Centre-Back: Nim Dorjee Tamang

Nim Dorjee Tamang is another central defender who is likely to feature prominently for Hyderabad FC. The  Sikkimese player has been steadily improving his game and has the potential to become a rock-solid presence at the back. Nim's ability to distribute the ball from the defence and his tactical awareness provide additional dimensions to Hyderabad's defensive structure.

Right-Back: Nikhil Poojary

Nikhil Poojary is expected to patrol the right flank for Hyderabad FC. The Indian full-back is known for his tireless work-rate and impressive crossing ability. Nikhil's ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a vital component in the team's tactics. His overlapping runs and precise deliveries into the box can create scoring opportunities for the forwards.

Left-Back: Vignesh Dakshinamurthy

On the opposite flank, Hyderabad FC can rely on the services of Vignesh Dakshinamurthy. The 24-year-old left-back possesses excellent speed and stamina, allowing him to track back quickly and provide defensive cover. Vignesh is also a threat going forward, often delivering dangerous crosses and doing link-up play in the attacking third. His well-rounded skillset makes him a valuable asset for the team.

Central Midfielder: Joao Victor

In the heart of the midfield, Joao Victor will be tasked with controlling the tempo of the game. The Brazilian midfielder is known for his exceptional passing range, vision, and ability to dictate play from deep positions. Joao Victor's composure on the ball and defensive awareness make him a key component in the team's midfield setup.

Central Midfielder: Petteri Pennanen

Petteri Pennanen, the Finnish midfielder, will partner Joao Victor in the middle of the park. Petteri brings energy and dynamism to the midfield, combining his defensive work-rate with the ability to join the attack. His ball-winning skills and ability to initiate quick transitions make him a valuable asset in breaking down opponents and launching counter-attacks.

Attacking Midfielder: Mohammad Yasir

Mohammad Yasir is set to occupy the role of an attacking midfielder for Hyderabad FC. The India international possesses flair, creativity, and dribbling ability that can unlock opposition defenses. Yasir's vision and passing skills in the final third make him a playmaker who can create goal-scoring opportunities for the forwards.

Striker: Jonathan Moya

Jonathan Moya is one of the primary threats for Hyderabad FC up front. The Costa Rican striker has a natural goal-scoring instinct, often finding himself in the right place at the right time to put the ball in the back of the net. Moya's physical presence, aerial ability, and clinical finishing make him a potent force in the attacking department.

Striker: Joe Knowles

Joe Knowles, the Australian forward, partners with Moya in the attack. Joe brings versatility and work-rate to the forward line. His ability to stretch defences, make intelligent off-the-ball runs, and contribute defensively makes him a valuable asset in both scoring and creating opportunities.

Squad Analysis

Hyderabad FC have set up a good squad despite limited resources. In the recently concluded Durand Cup, the team had a disappointing outing and failed to qualify for the knockouts. The team was not able to register new players acquired in the summer transfer window due to a FIFA ban which was recently uplifted.

Quality-wise, the team has all the basics covered in midfield and in attack. However, the inexperience and lack of bench strength in defence might haunt them in future. 

Hyderabad FC still have one foreign spot left to strengthen their squad. The addition of a solid centre-back could significantly strengthen the squad and provide versatility in terms of formations and tactical adjustments.