Chennaiyin FC’s predicted lineup for ISL 2024-25

Chennaiyin FC have made brilliant signings in the transfer window

The Indian Super League (ISL) is poised for another new chapter as the 2024-25 season is set to commence on September 13th, 2024. The transfer window has kept the ISL clubs on their toes as they have worked diligently to get their squads in place for the upcoming campaign.

Domestic and international talents have been strategically brought in to revamp the team dynamics, with all the ingredients in place for an exciting season of the ISL. The clubs are in a relentless pursuit to strengthen their squad with the motive of building formidable teams that can rival their opponents in competing for the ISL trophy and the shield.

Owen Coyle‘s return to the club was one of the major changes made by Chennaiyin FC in the previous season. With the major task of getting the club back on track, he instilled a clear tactical idea and winning mentality into the squad.

His knack for getting the best from his players soon saw Chennaiyin FC slowly crawl up the league table, turning in better performances and results. His approach towards working on deadball situations transformed them into formidable threats from corners and free kicks.

The Scottish tactician’s insights and experience gained from the season seemed invaluable in identifying areas for improvement and shaping the team’s strategy. Even with Rafael Crivellaro’s departure, the team didn’t crumble.

The Marina Machans have been one of the most active clubs in the transfer window. Chennaiyin FC have not only made international signings like Wilmar Jordan, and Daniel Chima Chukwu but also domestic signings like Kiyan Nassiri, Mandar Rao Dessai, and several others.

It will be interesting how Coyle will deploy his squad, especially given the wealth of attacking and defensive options available. Here’s how the team could line up under the leadership of the Scottish tactician

Chennaiyin FC – Possible formation – (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper – Mohammad Nawaz

A product of AIFF Elite Academy, Mohammad Nawaz has also been a part of Mumbai City FC, FC Goa, and the U-17 Indian team. Nawaz has played 83 matches so far in his professional career, keeping 23 clean sheets. In 65 ISL games, he has recorded 15 clean sheets and 150 saves. He is known for his quick reflexes, composure under pressure, and impressive shot-stopping abilities.

Left Back – Mandar Rao Desai

Defender Mandar Rao Dessai made 17 appearances, keeping five clean sheets last season. His contributions also came in the form of 14 interceptions, 24 clearances, 57 recoveries, and created 8 chances. He also has an assist to his name and a passing accuracy of 76%.

Centre Back – Ryan Edwards

Ryan Edwards is the only second foreigner to be retained by the club in four years after Rafael Crivellaro. Edwards was named club captain for the 2023/24 season and made 25 appearances in all competitions including two goals and an assist.

Centre Back – Laldinpuia Pachuau

Laldinpuia has been a reliable defender for Chennaiyin FC in the last season. He had also scored a goal and has been effective in maintaining 5 clean sheets His contributions also include 37 interceptions 133 recoveries and 47 clearances. He has also been instrumental by creating a total of 7 chances and has a passing accuracy of 80%

Right back – Ankit Mukherjee

Ankit Mukherjee was one of the most impressive players for Chennaiyin FC. He scored twice and assisted once, showcasing his offensive instincts despite being a defender. Defensively, he excelled with 19 tackles, 9 blocks, 36 clearances, and 28 interceptions. His ability to create 15 chances further highlighted his all-round impact.

Defensive Midfielder – Jiteshwor Singh

Jiteshwor has played a total of 44 matches for Chennaiyin in all competitions including 23 in the last season. Since joining Chennaiyin FC in 2022, Jiteshwor has been a key contributor for the club. He has not only made 25 successful tackles (the most for Chennaiyin last season) but also registered 14 interceptions, showcasing his quality on the field.

Central Midfielder – Lalrinliana Hnamte

Chennaiyin has roped in young Mizo central midfielder Lalrinliana Hnamte ahead of the 2024-25 season. He has made 43 appearances in the ISL. Hnamte has also scored two goals so far in his professional career, one of which came against Chennaiyin in his debut ISL season. In the previous season, he recorded an impressive 83% passing accuracy in 13 matches.

Left Wing – Connor Shields

Connor Shields joined Chennaiyin FC in 2023. He has signed a contract extension that will keep the skilled Scottish player at the club till 2025. He has played a total of 27 matches for the team scoring five goals and registering four assists and his presence on the wings will bring significant quality and energy to the team’s performance on the field.

Attacking Midfielder – Lukas Brambilla

Lukas Brambilla has joined Chennaiyin FC from Cyprus’s top-tier club Othellos Athienou on a one-year deal. Brambilla has excelled in various countries, playing for different clubs in multiple competitions. He has played a total of 134 matches in his senior club career and notched 22 goals and 24 assists. The Brazilian brings a wealth of experience and skill to the club and will be an interesting midfielder to watch out for.

Right Wing – Kiyan Nassiri

Kiyan was a regular member of Mohun Bagan Super Giant side that won the Indian Super League Winners Shield in 2024 and the ISL trophy in 2023. In 68 matches across the competition for the club, he played brilliantly and registered nine goals and two assists.

His presence in Chennaiyin FC will elevate the team’s attacking capabilities, as he is expected to play an important role for the club, bringing valuable quality and energy onto the field.

Centre Forward – Wilmar Jordan Gil

Wilmar made his ISL debut with NorthEast United FC in 2022. He then continued his impressive journey with ISL debutants Punjab FC the following season, scoring eight goals in 15 appearances. Wilmar’s presence will add firepower to the offensive synergy of the Chennaiyin FC squad.

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