Jamshedpur FC has made a significant addition to their midfield by signing experienced Spanish midfielder Javier Hernandez. The 35-year-old attacking midfielder joins the Men of Steel for the 2024-25 season, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in Indian football.
Hernandez has established himself as a prominent figure in the Indian Super League, having previously played for clubs like ATK Mohun Bagan, Bengaluru FC, and Odisha FC. His impressive performances have earned him recognition as a creative playmaker and a potent attacking force. He has won the Indian Super League championship with ATK Mohun Bagan in 2019-20 and the Durand Cup in 2022, while also achieving a runner-up finish in the 2022-23 Indian Super League playoffs with Bengaluru FC.
In his five-year stint in India, Hernandez has amassed a remarkable record of 21 goals and 17 assists in the Indian Super League. His arrival at Jamshedpur FC is expected to inject a significant boost to their midfield, providing a valuable blend of experience, creativity, and attacking threat.
Hernandez expressed his excitement about joining Jamshedpur FC, stating that the move represents an exciting new chapter in his Indian football journey. He expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by the club and Head Coach Khalid Jamil, and he is eager to contribute positively to the team’s performance. He is confident that he can make a significant contribution and is committed to giving his all for the club.
Head Coach Khalid Jamil echoed Hernandez’s sentiment, highlighting the unparalleled experience that the midfielder brings to the team and the importance of utilizing his expertise effectively. He emphasized that Hernandez’s familiarity with Indian football is a significant advantage, and his presence fills the need for attacking experience. Jamil also praised Hernandez’s exemplary behavior on and off the field, recognizing him as an ideal role model for young Indian players.
Hernandez’s journey in football began with his youth career at local side CDF Pizarrales, before progressing to UD Salamanca in 2002 and the Real Madrid Youth Academy at the age of 16 in 2005. He made his senior debut with Real Madrid Castilla in Segunda Division B, followed by spells at Halmstad, Salamanca, CD Ourense, and Burgos CF. In 2015, Hernandez moved to Romania to play for Poli Timisoara, then had stints in Poland with Gornik Leczna and Azerbaijan with Gabala. After a two-year return to Poland with Krakow-based club MKS Cracovia, he embarked on his Indian football adventure.
Hernandez will wear the coveted number 10 jersey at Jamshedpur FC and is expected to join the team shortly. His arrival is anticipated to strengthen the team’s midfield and provide a formidable attacking presence, contributing to Jamshedpur FC’s aspirations for success in the upcoming season.
