Three positions Hyderabad FC need to strengthen for 2025-26 season

Hyderabad FC ended up in the 12th position in the ISL this season

Indian Super League club Hyderabad FC had a difficult season in 2024-25 as they grappled with uncertainty and severe financial troubles, but Hyderabad FC entered the season with an air of optimism.

This positive shift was primarily due to the Jindal Group’s acquisition, which provided vital stability and confidence, helping the club to focus on rebuilding and re-establishing themselves in the Indian Super League. Under the dual leadership of Head Coach Thangboi Singto and Shameel Chembakath, expectations were high for the Yellow and Black to rebound and achieve a better season.

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Even with a revamped squad featuring new acquisitions and foreign talent, Hyderabad FC found themselves unable to break free from the lower half of the table. While they had a higher number of wins when compared to the 2023-24 campaign, this improved performance did not reflect in their final league position, as they concluded the season in 12th place of the Indian Super League table.

With the Nawabs looking to compete in all the competitions during the 2025–26 season, here are three important positions that Hyderabad FC needs to improve to transform into title contenders

A reliable goalkeeper

For Hyderabad FC, defensive instability has proven to be a critical issue, consistently nullifying their efforts even in matches where they had performed well. This had become a pattern throughout the season, something that has undermined their overall performance in the season.

This issue had been profoundly impacted in the first half of the season due to the unavailability of Arshdeep Singh who had sustained an injury, which severely weakened their goalkeeping options. The responsibility had then fallen to Biaka Jongte and Karanjeet Singh, neither of whom managed to consistently provide the commanding presence and crucial saves required, directly contributing to a higher tally of goals against the team.

Bringing in a dependable and reliable goalkeeper who is not injury-prone would provide much-needed stability and allow the team to establish a consistent backline.

Hyderabad FC needs to work on their attacking options

Hyderabad FC’s attacking efforts have often been a story of frustration, with their inability to finish chances standing out as a key area for improvement. While the team showed the ability to create numerous chances, their efficiency in the final third was consistently lacking.

Hyderabad FC saw solid contributions from Allan Paulista and Edmilson Correia in their roles, but the story was different on the wings. The team faced constant challenges in the wide areas, as many players were forced to operate out of their natural positions. On the other hand Joseph Sunny has been a standout performer as a striker, showcasing brilliance. However, his effectiveness could be further amplified with better support from the flanks.

Hyderabad FC would significantly improve their attacking skills by acquiring a player who can provide regular, impactful and quality deliveries from the right flank, creating more opportunities for the players in front of goal.

Lack of depth in the role of a defensive midfielder

Midfielders are the anchor for bridging defence and attack, responsible for ball-winning, distribution, and dictating the momentum or the pace. Hyderabad FC’s on-field performance this season has critically exposed the midfield as a significant area demanding urgent and immediate improvement.

Although Andrei Alba showcased consistency and delivered impactful performances in his role, Both Ayush Adhikari and Abhijith PA, despite showing flashes of their potential, were unable to maintain their form across the season, making an impact only in a limited number of matches. While Lenny Rodrigues, a player from whom much was expected, visibly struggled to find his rhythm despite being one of the most experienced players on the team.

The upcoming summer transfer window will be a crucial opportunity for Hyderabad FC. By making strategic moves, the club can translate their flashes of potential into consistent performances throughout the 2025-26 season. Ultimately, the Nawabs will be striving to add more silverware to their name.

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