ISL: Chennaiyin FC aim big this season with major squad changes

Chennaiyin FC, one of the more consistent teams in the ISL, have been on a downward trajectory these past few years.

Since their ISL Cup win back in 2019, until last season when they qualified for the knockout playoffs, they have been on the wrong end of the table.

Despite recent struggles, including missing out on the playoffs for three consecutive seasons from 2020-21 to 2022-23, Chennaiyin FC showed resilience last season by securing a sixth-place finish and making it to the knockout stages.

Though they were eliminated in the first round, their upward trajectory under coach Owen Coyle, who led them to the final in the 2019-20 season, remains promising.

Key transfers:

There was a major overhaul of the squad over the summer, with as many as 15 players brought in by Owen Coyle and the club also saw the departure of 13 players.

"A big turnover takes time, but we’re excited about the progress. The longer we work together, the stronger we will become," said head coach Owen Coyle in a media interaction ahead of Chennaiyin's season opener against Odisha FC.

There are a few signings that Chennaiyin FC would hope produce the magic for them on the field.

Daniel Chima Chukwu

Reuniting with Owen Coyle, the coach under whom he had his best season in the ISL with Jamshedpur FC, a lot is expected from the Nigerian forward, in both the goal-scoring department and the hold-up play part of Coyle's system.

Kiyan Nassiri

The talented 23-year-old will be hoping to have a continuation of his good form from last season, where he was crucial in Mohun Bagan's ISL Shield-winning run.

With nine goals last year, the young Indian forward will be hoping to improve that number and hit double digits in the goals tally in the upcoming season.

Jitendra Singh

The talented Indian midfielder was acquired from Jamshedpur FC, where he spent two successful years.

He brings a defensive physicality into the midfield and with the profiles around him in the squad, he will compliment them well and give this team a much-needed balance between defense and offense.

In addition to that, his versatility in midfield will allow him to occupy multiple positions, offering the head coach flexibility in the tactical management of games.

Can Owen Coyle once again weave his magic?

Having come back to Chennaiyin FC, a club he took to the summit in 2019, Coyle managed to turn things around for the Marina Machans, leading them to the playoff spots.

Having won the ISL Shield with Jamshedpur FC back in 2021-22, Owen, with a good transfer window behind him, will be expected to build on the platform he's paved, and it is fair to assume he has the personnel to play his brand of football.

A manager who emphasizes defending as a unit and with a high-pressing structure, he will expect a lot from his players, especially off the ball.

With a proven track record of winning silverware in the ISL circuit, it remains to be seen if the Irish manager brings back Chennaiyin FC's golden days.

Opening fixture

They will start their campaign with a tough trip to Odisha FC, known for their strong home record.

Their first home game will be against newly-promoted Mohammedan SC, followed by a high-profile clash against Bengaluru FC, which will be held at home.

Complete squad list

Coach: Owen Coyle

Goalkeepers: Mohammad Nawaz, Mohanraj K, Samik Mitra. Defenders: Ankit Mukherjee, Bikash Yumnam, Laldinliana Renthlei, Mandar Rao Dattarao Dessai, Pachuau Laldinpuia, Ryan Christopher Edwards, Vignesh Dakshinamurthy.

Midfielders: Elson Jose Dias Jr, Farukh Haji Kasam Choudhary, Jitendra Singh, Lalrinliana Hnamte, Lukas Pivetta Brambilla, Yumkhaibam Jiteshwor Singh.

Forwards: Connor Jon Shields, Daniel Chima Chukwu, Gurkirat Singh, Irfan Yadwad, Kiyan Nassiri Giri, Vincy Barretto, Wilmar Jordan Gil.

Overall, Chennaiyin FC’s season promises to be an exciting one, with a blend of new talent and experienced players under the guidance of Owen Coyle.

Fans can expect a competitive season as the Marina Machans look to build on their recent progress and make a strong push for the top spots in the ISL.