Odisha FC star Roy Krishna ruled out of ISL 2024-25 due to injury

The 37-year-old Fijian striker will miss the rest of the season with the Kalinga Warriors.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Odisha FC star forward Roy Krishna has been ruled out for the rest of the 2024-25 season due to a Grade 3 ACL injury. The Fijian striker suffered his recent setback during the Juggernauts’ recent clash against Hyderabad FC in matchweek 9.

It is a hammer blow for the team just a day before their clash against Mumbai City FC at the Kalinga Stadium. Krishna has been a pivotal figure in Odisha’s attacking setup since joining the club last season. Playing in nine games this season, he contributed with three goals and started in 60 percent of the games for the club.

The player’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping Odisha FC’s recent successes. The 37-year-old known for his clinical finishing and dynamic presence on the pitch will leave a glaring gap in coach Sergio Lobera’s plans.

Lobera highlights the importance of Roy Krishna

One of the first to express his sentiments about the unfortunate development was Odisha FC head coach Sergio Lobera. While talking about Krishna, the Spaniard stated, “Losing such a vital player is always challenging. Roy is not just an exceptional footballer but also one of the best professionals I’ve worked with. I have no doubt he will recover well and come back stronger.”

The 47-year-old acknowledged the challenge ahead but stressed the importance for his team to stay focused in this trying time for one of their own. He stated, “Setbacks like these are hard to accept, but we must keep moving forward as a team. Our goals remain unchanged, and we will continue to work hard.”

ℹ 𝗜𝗡𝗝𝗨𝗥𝗬 𝗨𝗣𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘 ℹ Roy Krishna will be out for the remainder of the season due to an ACL (Grade 3) injury sustained during the game against Hyderabad FC.🔗 Read More ➡️ https://t.co/np19PT7jdV#OdishaFC | @RoyKrishna21

— Odisha FC (@OdishaFC) December 4, 2024

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Absence of Roy Krishna

While Roy Krishna’s absence creates a pressing need to adjust their tactics, the club still possesses a lot of talented players. The Spaniard will be looking towards experienced forwards like Diego Mauricio and Jerry Mawhmingthanga to fill the void and supply the goals for his team.

While Krishna’s injury is a piece of saddening news for the Kalinga Warriors and their fans, the team will be looking to show their mettle against Mumbai City FC in match week 11. The injury to Krishna underscores the unpredictable nature of football, a sport that is unrelenting and doesn’t stop for anybody.

Odisha FC, currently holding the third spot will be hoping for a strong finish in the ISL this season. As the Fijian striker embarks on his long rehabilitation journey, the entire community in the state will stand behind him, hoping for his swift return to the field.

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