What does Odisha FC need to do in January transfer window?

Lobera’s Juggernauts have scored 25 goals in ISL so far this season.

Odisha FC currently find themselves in 6th place in the ISL standings, with five wins, five draws, and three losses from their 13 matches so far. With 25 goals scored, they are the fourth highest-scoring team in the league, just behind Mohun Bagan, Bengaluru FC, and NorthEast United FC. Despite a strong attacking record, the team has not lived up to expectations this season, especially after a promising last campaign.

The arrival of Hugo Boumous was anticipated to strengthen the squad, but their performance have not been as dominant as anticipated. A significant reliance on Mourtada Fall has added to the concerns, particularly following Roy Krishna’s departure due to injury, leaving a void in the attack.

However, with Sergio Lobera at the helm, there is still hope for Odisha FC to regain their form. Lobera’s tactical expertise and ability to inspire his players could be the key to a successful turnaround in the second half of the season. This feature delves into the team’s strengths and weaknesses, analyzing individual performances so far in the ISL.

Additionally, we explore potential transfer moves Odisha FC could make to ensure they finish in the top six and remain competitive throughout the season. The club’s next steps will be crucial in determining their trajectory for the remainder of the campaign.

How is the season going

Odisha FC entered the season with high expectations, with many pundits considering them strong contenders for the ISL Shield and the ISL Trophy. Their near-miss at securing the ISL Shield and reaching the finals last season, coupled with their participation in the AFC Cup, had elevated Odisha FC’s status in Indian football. The team’s success was largely attributed to the tactical brilliance of Sergio Lobera, who had transformed the club into one of the most formidable forces in the league. However, this season has been far from the anticipated success, leaving fans and analysts alike frustrated.

Despite having a squad brimming with talent and a coach of Lobera’s pedigree, Odisha FC’s campaign have been marked by inconsistency. A shock defeat to Chennaiyin FC at home, a record-breaking loss after an unbeaten streak at Kalinga Stadium, set the tone for their erratic start. While Odisha have steadied the ship, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches, their attacking capabilities have been far from their best. A recent goalless draw against bottom-placed Mohammedan Sporting Club raised further concerns about their ability to break down low-block defences.

With the season reaching its crucial stages, Odisha FC will need to bolster their attack and shore up their defence in the upcoming transfer window if they are to secure a spot in the top six. The team’s performance in the second half of the season will largely depend on how they address these weaknesses and whether Lobera can once again orchestrate a successful turnaround for the club.

How are the summer signings performing?

Odisha FC made a strategic decision to retain their core team and key foreign players, including goalkeeper Amrinder Singh, Diego Mauricio, Roy Krishna, Mourtada Fall, Ahmed Jahouh, and Carlos Delgado. The only new addition to the foreign recruit was Hugo Boumous, a player familiar with coach Sergio Lobera’s methods from their time at Mumbai City FC and FC Goa. However, despite the continuity, the team’s performance this season has been below expectations, particularly after Roy Krishna’s injury, which has disrupted the attack.

Diego Mauricio has been Odisha’s standout player, scoring 7 goals and providing 3 assists, but his efforts have been insufficient without the support of an unfit Roy Krishna. Ahmed Jahouh has contributed significantly with 4 assists, controlling the midfield, while Boumous has added 3 goals and 4 assists. Despite his solid contribution, Boumous feels his performance can improve, signaling a desire for more impact in the upcoming matches.

Mourtada Fall has been crucial both defensively and offensively, scoring 4 goals while maintaining solidity at the back. However, players like Raheem Ali, with just one goal, and Rohit Kumar have had limited opportunities to shine. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see whether Lobera provides these players with more playing time to maximize their potential and boost the team’s fortunes.

Weakness and strength

Odisha FC have been a team of extremes this season, capable of scoring four goals in one match and failing to register any in another. Their inconsistency has been evident, particularly in their goalless draws against Mohammedan Sporting Club and Mumbai City FC.

Despite showing glimpses of attacking flair, their inability to convert crucial draws into victories or losses into draws has hindered their campaign. A poor start, including defeats to Chennaiyin FC and Punjab FC, was partially offset by a strong performance against Jamshedpur FC, but the inconsistency remains a concern.

Defensively, Odisha FC have shown resilience, keeping three clean sheets against Hyderabad FC, Mumbai City FC, and Mohammedan Sporting Club. Statistically, their defensive record is commendable, having conceded only 17 goals so far, one of the better tallies in the league. Their goal difference of +8 is a testament to their balanced gameplay on paper. However, their struggles to maintain this balance on the pitch and capitalize on winnable games have left them trailing behind in the points table.

A significant challenge for Odisha FC lies in their over-reliance on foreign players. While Diego Mauricio, Hugo Boumous, and Mourtada Fall have been instrumental, the lack of impactful contributions from domestic players has created a gap in their performances. To turn their season around, Odisha must address this dependency and seek a more unified team effort as they aim to break into the top six and secure a playoff spot.

What does Odisha FC need in the winter transfer window?

Odisha FC have recently made notable changes to their squad, including the signing of Brazilian centre-forward Dorielton as a replacement for the injured Roy Krishna. While Dorielton brings potential, the team requires a dependable forward who can deliver consistently, especially on days when Diego Mauricio and Hugo Boumous are not at their best.

Additionally, the departure of Givson Singh to Rajasthan United leaves a void in the bench that needs addressing. Odisha’s attacking unit could benefit from more depth, ensuring they have a reliable backup plan in case Dorielton struggles to adapt to the league’s demands.

Defensively, Odisha FC remain overly reliant on foreign stalwarts like Mourtada Fall and Ahmed Jahouh, which highlights the need for capable Indian defenders, particularly on the wings. While Jerry Lalrinzuala has shown promise with his overlapping runs, the addition of an experienced Indian fullback on the opposite flank could balance their defensive structure. In midfield, Puitea’s dip in form compared to last season is a concern, and a revitalized midfield effort is essential. Goalkeeper Amrinder Singh also needs consistent performances, and bringing in an experienced backup could ensure stability and accountability in crucial moments.

For long-term success, Odisha FC must focus on players who align with Sergio Lobera’s philosophy. Targeting individuals with prior experience under Lobera could streamline their tactical approach. Young players have emerged across the league, but Odisha needs individuals who can make an immediate impact. With Narender Gahlot yet to secure regular minutes and his transfer rumours making the buzz, Odisha must target new signings to address current shortcomings and bolster future aspirations.

Odisha FC, led by the tactical genius Sergio Lobera, possesses the capability to outplay even the league’s heavyweights, including Mohun Bagan and Bengaluru FC. However, their inconsistency this Indian Super League season have been a significant setback. A key addition in attack or a defensive stalwart could provide the much-needed X-factor to reignite their campaign. Lobera, renowned for his transformative strategies, has consistently delivered at every club he has managed, and expectations remain high for him to replicate that success in the latter half of the season.

With Lobera’s expertise and the team’s potential, Odisha FC has the tools to stage a compelling comeback. The upcoming fixtures will be pivotal as they strive to maximize their points tally and solidify their position in the league standings.

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