Delhi Dynamos enjoyed its best season in 2016 when it reached the semifinals. The preceding season had brought the same result even though it was felt Dynamos looked better prepared in 2016. There was tremendous intensity to go for the title but, true to its reputation, Dynamos remained an underachiever.
State of play
Handling the pressure will be critical to Delhi Dynamos’ approach this season. The sore point in its preparation has been the constant changing of the squad.
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The players are hardly allowed to settle, which impacts the stability of the combination.
There were large-scale changes last season and it did little to boost the confidence of the team. Dynamos do not enjoy the best of finances too which reduces their buying power for key positions on the field.
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Bikramjit Singh will be the man to watch. He has shifted allegiance from Chennaiyin FC where he was the mainstay last season. Bikramjit will provide energy and bite in midfield and don the box-to-box midfielder’s role with aplomb.
The midfielder is amongst the most decorated player in the league, having won the title twice. A former Mohun Bagan member, Bikramjit will stretch all opponents in his pursuit of his third ISL title.
Achilles Heel
Inability to finish a contest is the team’s biggest drawback. It has often promised but not delivered.
For home fans, it has been a frustrating experience at the Nehru Stadium as their team often ends up a loser due to spells of complacency. It has consistently failed to finish off games.
Last season, it led 2-0 against Jamshedpur FC but ended up going down 2-3. It must learn to build upon advantages.
Foreign recruits
Rene Mihelic (midfielder), Marcos Tebar (midfielder), Dorronsoro Sanchez (goalkeeper), Gianni Zuiverloon (defender), Marti Crespi Pascual (defender), Andrija Kaludjerovic (striker), Adria Carmona (winger).