ISL 2023-24: Mumbai City FC midfielder Ahmed Jahouh is all set to join Odisha FC

Odisha FC are set to acquire the services of midfield stalwart Ahmed Jahouh from ISL League Shield winners Mumbai City FC, according to news reports.

The Juggernauts have offered the Moroccan a two-year contract and persuaded him to part ways with the Islanders, Times of India's Marcus Mergulhao reported.

His addition is meant to inject invaluable experience, leadership, and a winning mentality into the Odisha FC squad as they look to make their mark in Asia and the Indian subcontinent in the upcoming season.

Marcus Mergulhao

@MarcusMergulhao

Odisha have made a two-year offer and with Sergio Lobera as coach, it's difficult to see Ahmed Jahouh anywhere else. twitter.com/varund221/stat…

VD

@varund221

@MarcusMergulhao Is Mumbai trying to retain him? Is Jahouh even slightly willing to continue with Mumbai? Or is it the Lobera bond that's pulling him?

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@MarcusMergulhao Is Mumbai trying to retain him? Is Jahouh even slightly willing to continue with Mumbai? Or is it the Lobera bond that's pulling him?

Odisha have made a two-year offer and with Sergio Lobera as coach, it's difficult to see Ahmed Jahouh anywhere else. twitter.com/varund221/stat…

Over his three seasons at Mumbai City, Jahouh grew into an invaluable member of the club. He followed head coach Sergio Lobera in 2020 to join the Islanders and went on to win the holy ISL double - the Shield and the Championship - that season.

Even under Des Buckingham, the 34-year-old continued to perform at the highest level and helped Mumbai City on their way to the League Shield in the recently concluded season.

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Reunion of Sergio Lobera and Ahmed Jahouh reignite Odisha FC's fortunes

The man responsible for bringing Ahmed Jahouh to India, Sergio Lobera, has now taken the top job at Odisha FC.

The Moroccan midfielder first made his mark in Indian football when he joined Goa on a season-long loan in 2017. Impressed by Jahouh's performance during his loan spell, Lobera decided to extend his stay and signed him on a one-year contract extension in May 2019.

He played a pivotal role in FC Goa's Shield victory during the 2019-20 ISL season, leading the team with his exceptional tackling and passing skills.

In October 2020, Mumbai City FC secured the services of Jahouh, signing him on a two-year deal. In his debut season with the club, he played a crucial part in their victorious campaign, helping them clinch both the ISL Winners Shield and the Indian Super League title, as mentioned earlier.

Additionally, the defensive midfielder also represented the Islanders in the AFC Champions League, showcasing his versatility and adaptability on the continental stage.

Lobera, known for his tactical prowess and ability to nurture talent, was eager on securing Jahouh's services and will now hope the Moroccan can strengthen Odisha FC's midfield and act as a catalyst for the team's continued growth, success, and memorable performances on the pitch.

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