Five reasons why Javi Hernandez can create an impact at Odisha FC

The midfielder was part of the ATK squad that won the ISL title in the 2019-20 season.

Odisha FC have made it clear this season that they will be a force to be reckoned with. After appointing a new coach, they have reinforced their midfield by signing Javi Hernandez. The 32-year-old Spaniard has previously played for ATK and ATK Mohun Bagan in the Indian Super League (ISL), winning the league title once.

In his first spell in India, he went on to lift the ISL trophy with ATK. An excellent run of form meant ATK Mohun Bagan retained him for the 2020-21 season. He was part of the Mariners' side that finished runners-up in the 2020-21 season. However, they decided against extending his contract further as Hernandez left as a free agent.

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Odisha FC seized the opportunity of signing Javi Hernandez in the summer as they continue to build a team to change their fortunes in the upcoming season. Let's take a look at how Javi Hernandez can create an impact at Odisha FC.

5. ISL experience

Having played in the Indian Super League for two years, Javi Hernandez has all the required attributes to excel at Odisha FC. One of the most integral part of Antonio Habas' squad, his importance at was immense for both ATK and ATK Mohun Bagan. In fact, he scored a brace in the 2019-20 ISL final against Chennaiyin FC, helping ATK lift the trophy. He has made 37 appearances till now in the league, and that shows how effective his performance has been so far.

His stint in India has made him familiar with the league as well as the after-effects of COVID-19. Javi Hernandez will not have any trouble settling to the bio-bubble once again, before starting for Odisha FC. Further, the midfielder has plenty of experience and meeting the demands of another Indian side will be should be easy for him.

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4. The Spanish connection

Javi Hernandez will not have to worry about adjusting to a new club as OFC have already prepared for it. David Villa is the club’s ambassador, Kiko Ramirez is the new coach and Victor Mongil is their latest addition, alongside Javi. What do all these people have in common? The Spanish bloodline. Villa won’t matter much other than having a native around. However, the other two can play a crucial role. 

Victor can communicate with Javi during the matches and their bonding will be different compared to other teammates. The link-up with the coach can make him deliver his best. The Spanish way of doing things can only be done by Spaniards. And with Kiko on the sidelines, it will be a smooth sail.

3. Goals from midfield

Last season, Odisha FC ended rock bottom in the league. Although the team were struggling overall, the midfield in particular had been lagging a lot. Half of the goals scored by Odisha were from their striker, Diego Mauricio. There was hardly any support from the midfield to ease the pressure off the strikers.

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However, the addition of Javi Hernandez might be the final piece of that puzzle. He has got the experience and the talent. Not only can he contribute as a player, but he can also be of guidance to the other players who lack the much-needed experience on the pitch.

2. Big-match player

Mauricio was the only player OFC could rely on last year. His departure has emptied the ‘reliable’ spot. But, fear not, for Javi is here. The Spaniard might not be much of a goalscorer, but he sure knows how to make an impact when needed. 

The 32-year-old attacking midfielder has been providing huge support to the forwards in Kolkata. Having played the whole season without scoring a single goal in the 2019-20 season, he burst into action in the final against Chennaiyin FC, scoring twice in the 3-1 victory. This brings us to the point, that Odisha do not need to worry if the team struggles for goals, as Javi sure knows how to be the saviour. 

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1. The international wisdom

Odisha FC fans can proudly say that they have a Madridista playing for them. Technically, he played for their 'B' team, but who cares. Javi had completed his final phase of the youth journey at Real Madrid. In 2008, he got promoted to the reserve team. Having failed to break into the first team, he joined another Spanish side. 

But, not playing for Los Blancos doesn’t mean he lacks anything. He has got plenty of experience across Europe. Spain was his main place, but other than that, his spell lasted more in Poland. Having got the taste of ten international clubs, Odisha FC can absolutely rely on the player to help the team overcome obstacles.

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