Hyderabad FC looking to turn fortunes - Heavily shopping in the Players’ Market

The 6th season of the Indian Super League would have seemed really long for Hyderabad FC, despite just being their first season. The new franchisee came into the fray just ahead of the ISL 6, taking over from the financially struggling FC Pune City, including the liability of the transfer ban imposed on them. Hence Hyderabad couldn’t do much to built their squad for 2019-20.

But this time around, they are one of the most active club in the Transfer Market, having already confirmed series of players. Business started off with the confirmation of Albert Roca right in the middle of the on-going season, who would take over the helm next term. One of the most important player of the team - Adil Khan’s contract was renewed and tied down for multiple years, before anyone could even approach him.

Nikhil Poojary, who featured in all the 18 matches for the team, was the second one to be tied down. His energy on the field and the ability to adapt to any position on the field makes him another player the club cannot effort to lose. They have also roped in another winger - Holicharan Narzary from Kerala Blasters FC. The national team winger scored once and assisted twice in the 14 games he has played for the Blasters this season.

These were followed with the big news, the signing of Subrata Pal, the veteran goalkeeper. The 33-year-old featured in 15 matches this season but leaked 26 goals in the process, something not usual with him. Despite that, Hyderabad FC put their faith in the former India international and got them into their fold for the next season. To back him up, young Indian Arrows goalkeeper, Lalbiakhlua Jongte was signed following his heroics in the I-League.

Another pricey catch is Chinglensana Konsham from FC Goa, who couldn’t amassed much game-time under Sergio Loberra, with the coach preferring to go with two foreign centre backs. But considering the talent he is, if Roca utilises him well, the Manipuri is sure to shine which in turn could propel him to the next level.

The team has also put faith in the youngsters, having secured the signature of the likes of Jongte and his two friends - Rohit Danu and Akash Mishra. Danu shot to fame last year in the I-league when he scored four goals in six matches before an injury cut short his stint. He is back from injury now and will look forward to impress when he starts his journey with the ISL side. Mishra on the other hand is a defender, who mostly played as left wing-back for the Arrows. He was part of the U Dream footballers, who trained at the Bundesliga side TSG 1899 Hoffenheim.

Homepage