Three positions Jamshedpur FC need to strengthen in 2025-26 season

Khalid Jamil will be keen to fix the Red Miners’ defensive woes in the next season.

Jamshedpur FC had their best ever season since their inception into the Indian Super League (ISL) back in the 2017-18 season. The club not only reached the ISL Semi Finals but also played their first ever finals of any major competition after they defeated the Islanders to storm themselves into the Kalinga Super Cup Finals.

Despite a spirited performance and inching so close to the silverware, Jamshedpur FC had yet another trophyless season. Khalid Jamil would be keen to fix some areas which need immediate attention. His vast experience in the Indian footballing circuit, coupled with his Indian nativeness, makes him a valuable asset to persuade players to join his team to accomplish a shared vision.

In this article, we shall take a close look at three positions which Jamshedpur FC can strengthen to cherish their silverware dreams. From what’s wrong to who can fill that void, we will do a deep analysis.

3. Left-back position

With rumours of Muhammed Uvais heading to Punjab FC, Jamshedpur FC would require someone to fill the void. Uvais had been a brilliant signing for the Red Miners, and he grabbed a lot of eyeballs with his overlapping runs from the left flank and his long throws. His departure would be a big blow for the Red Miners, making the left flank more vulnerable to counterattacks.

To fill his void, Jerry Lalrinzuala or someone experienced like Narayan Das could be a good addition. Despite the Juggernauts failing to impress, Jerry had put up a valiant performance for Sergio Lobera’s side. His acceleration with the ball and ability to supply balls to Sanan and Ritwik Das could open doors to attacking opportunities for Jamshedpur FC.

Narayan Das could also be an alternate option for the Red Miners. The TFA graduate would be keen to return back to the city that gave wings to his footballing dreams. After a fantastic performance with Inter Kashi, he would look forward to making a return to the Indian top flight.

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2. Defensive midfielder

Khalid Jamil was constantly struggling to find his best combination for the defensive midfield role. From Mobashir Rahman, Lazar Cirkovic, Sourav Das to Pronay Halder, he kept experimenting, but none of that was feasible in the long run. Rei Tachikawa also faced difficulty pressing back and aiding the defence. Hence, the need for a proper defensive midfielder is a must.

The good news is that there are some quality defensive midfielders whose contracts are on the verge of expiration. Indian options include young Jiteshwor Singh from Chennaiyin FC, Jayesh Rane from Mumbai City FC and Rowlin Borges from FC Goa. With Rowlin getting less game time with the Gaurs, his move to the Steel City won’t be a big surprise.

Foreign options include the likes of Carl McHugh, Filip Mrzljak, Yoell van Nieff and Mohammed Ali Bemammer. Dutchman van Nieff could be on the radar of many teams. Bemammer’s signing could be a major boost for Jamshedpur FC.

1. Centre forward duo

Despite Javi Siverio and Jordan Murray impressing for the Red Miners, they failed to build on Javi Hernandez’s creativity in the midfield and score during a crucial time. With both Murray and Siverio’s contracts nearing expiration, Jamshedpur would need to explore other options in the market.

Nikolas Karelis and Diego Mauricio would be on Khalid’s radar. Both these strikers have been brilliant for their clubs. With talks of a major overhaul in Odisha FC’s foreign roster, Mauricio could be a great addition for the Red Miners. Other options include Kwame Peprah and Raphael Messi Bouli as well.

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