Chennaiyin FC (CFC), the two-time Indian Super League champion, has undergone a significant squad overhaul this season. The team boasts 13 new faces, including several promising young domestic players. Twelve players have departed the club for various reasons.
Head coach Owen Coyle, known for his willingness to embrace challenges, is confident in his team’s abilities. In his previous two seasons with CFC, he guided the team to the playoffs and even the final in 2019-20. This time, Coyle believes his squad has the depth and talent to make a strong run.
“We will probably get two players for every position (this time) and we didn’t have that last year, certainly to the strength and depth of the new season. But I think this year we know we have players who can be game-changers. So, it gives us certainly far more competition for places which really is important,” Coyle said at a press conference.
Coyle expressed his satisfaction with the players’ desire to improve, which he sees as a positive sign for the club’s performance and potential to win the tournament.
“We have players who really want to improve, both young and experienced, who want to put their hands up. For example, the experienced Mandar Rao Dessai has a point to prove. He has been a champion. He wants to show his quality again having played for East Bengal last year,” Coyle said.
“So, everybody has got something to play for, and that is what I need. Players who are motivated and hungry, not feeling happy to play games,” the 58-year-old Scot added.
Chennaiyin will kick off its new season on September 14 against Odisha in Bhubaneswar. The players are aware of the competition within the squad and are eager to prove their worth.
