How Odisha FC should approach the ISL summer transfer window

The Juggernauts finished 11th in ISL 2025-26

Odisha FC finished the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 season in a very disappointing manner. But now they will need a good transfer window ahead of the new season to change things going forward. If they want to get back to their best self, who delivered performances constantly over the past few years, they must approach the transfer market with a very positive intent.

Odisha FC ended their ISL 2025-26 season in the 11th spot on the points table as they managed to win just two games and drew five matches. With 11 points, they finished above Mohammedan SC, Chennaiyin FC and Sporting Club Delhi avoiding relegation positively.

After a very disappointing season, the Juggernauts will look to turn their fortune as they go all in to improve their squad ahead of the upcoming season.

In this article we take a look at how Odisha FC must approach the transfer window.

A proven striker to be a top priority

The Juggernauts need to focus on their attacking power. In the previous season, they massively lacked in converting half-chances. With just one good striker, Rahim Ali, they struggled a lot as they will now need a proven goal scorer who can score important goals for the team during important moments.

The Juggernauts’ biggest need is a good foreign striker up front. A clinical number 9 who can provide something more to Rahim Ali or any other forwards. Strikers who have previously played in the ISL or any other competition can add more for Odisha FC.

Suhail Bhat could be a domestic option if they don’t pull off any foreign recruitments this season. He played very few minutes for Mohun Bagan SG. With his direct pace, energy and finishing skill with Rahim Ali, they might be a great duo to score goals for Odisha in the next season.

Need for a creative output

The Odisha side have struggled a lot in the last season to create good chances for the forwards. They will approach the transfer market to look for a creative playmaker who can unlock the opponent’s defensive line. And also, who can dictate the tempo of the game.

The creative output has to be for foreign recruitment. From Diamond Harbour FC, they have two brilliant, creative midfielders who have the vision and potential to play in the ISL. Antonio Moyano and Hugo Diaz are the two picks that could help the Juggernauts in the midfield area.

Also Read: How Inter Kashi FC should approach the ISL summer transfer window

Building a good Indian core

A good Indian core is what Odisha FC needs the most right now. The club could also get the benefit from signing more Indian players who are really young at their age and have the potential to prove themselves.

Alongside Rahul KP, Hitesh Sharma, Shubham Bhattacharya, Isak, Thoiba Singh, and Puitea, the Indian core team is ready, but they need to improve further by signing some more who are available in the market.

With Indian players, the team can shape up very well with their new system. Players from the Indian Football League will also add quality.

Reinforce the defence

What Odisha needs is very obvious. One or two foreign defenders in the back with leadership qualities. After the departure of Carlos Delgado, as of now, they don’t have a single foreigner in the team.

Defensive solidity is the main area for any team that makes any side very competitive. From ISL, there is a defender who can be a very good signing for the Juggernauts, Tom Aldred.

A proven ISL defender who has played for a champion team like Mohun Bagan and has a great amount of experience in Indian football. Another option from the Indian Football League is Hadi Iddrissu, one more defender who can bring something different to their defence.

Ideal player recruitment strategy for Odisha FC

Odisha FC need to approach the transfer market very seriously, or else they will not be able to make their team strong enough to compete next season. If the club addresses these areas with the right players, they will have a very competitive squad.

• 1 or 2 good foreign centre backs who can lead the defensive line, along with young Indian players.
• Odisha needs to sign a proper Attacking output who can unlock the opponent’s defence with his vision and game sense.
• The Juggernauts will need a proven foreign striker who can deliver and convert goals for his side.
• They need to improve the Indian core players in midfield, wing areas and also in other positions.

Some transfer targets for Odisha FC (Opinion)

Centre-backs: Tom Aldred, Hadi Iddrissu, Melroy Asisi

Full-backs: Mikel Kortazar, Saiesh Bagkar, Naresh Singh

Attacking Midfielders: Antonio Moyano, Hugo Diaz, Saul Crespo

Wingers: Lalthankima

Forward: Suhail Bhat, Sebastian Gutierrez

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