Jamshedpur FC announced the signing of seasoned Spanish midfielder Javier Hernandez on Thursday, a move set to significantly enhance the team’s midfield strength. The 35-year-old attacking midfielder is renowned for his creative playmaking abilities and dynamic attacking gameplay, which he brings to the Indian Super League (ISL) club for the 2024-25 season.
Hernandez, who has had an illustrious career in Indian football, arrives with an impressive track record. His tenure in the ISL includes winning the championship with ATK Mohun Bagan in the 2019-20 season, lifting the Durand Cup in 2022, and securing a runner-up finish in the 2022-23 ISL playoffs with Bengaluru FC. Over five years in the league, he has played for notable clubs like Bengaluru FC, Odisha FC, and ATK Mohun Bagan, amassing 21 goals and 17 assists.
Expressing his excitement about joining Jamshedpur FC, Hernandez said, “I’m delighted to join Jamshedpur FC, a move that heralds an exciting new chapter in my Indian football journey. I’m deeply grateful for the trust placed in me by the club and Head Coach Khalid Jamil, and I’m eager to reciprocate that faith with my performances. I firmly believe I have a significant contribution to make to the team, and I’m committed to giving my all in every step I take for the club. Having experienced the electric atmosphere at the Furnace before, I’m thrilled to now play for the passionate fans of Jharkhand and make them proud with my efforts.”
Hernandez’s professional journey in Indian football began with ATK Mohun Bagan from 2019 to 2021, where he left a lasting impression. During his stint with Odisha FC in the 2021-22 season, he featured in 19 out of 20 league games, scoring six goals and providing five assists, solidifying his reputation as a reliable and impactful player.
Khalid Jamil, head coach of Jamshedpur FC, praised Hernandez’s addition to the squad, stating, “Javier Hernandez brings unparalleled experience to our team, and it’s essential we utilize his expertise effectively. His familiarity with Indian football is a significant advantage. We need attacking experience and Javi’s presence fills that gap perfectly. His exemplary behaviour on and off the field makes him an ideal role model for our young Indian players. This season is crucial for him, and I’m confident he’ll rise to the occasion.”
Hernandez’s football career began with local Spanish side CDF Pizarrales before moving to UD Salamanca in 2002. At the age of 16, he joined the Real Madrid Youth Academy in 2005, where he later made his senior debut with Real Madrid Castilla in the Segunda Division B.
His career included international stints in Sweden with Halmstad, in Spain with Salamanca, CD Ourense, and Burgos CF, in Romania with Poli Timisoara, in Poland with Gornik Leczna and MKS Cracovia, and in Azerbaijan with Gabala.
As he prepares to don the number 10 jersey for Jamshedpur FC, Hernandez aims to leverage his vast experience and skills to contribute to the team’s success. His arrival is expected to not only bolster the squad’s attacking options but also serve as an inspiration for younger players aspiring to make their mark in the league.
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