Jamshedpur FC rope in Hernandez; Raynier and Subham join Odisha FC
Hernandez joined the Men of Steel while the Kalinga Warriors announced the arrival of two new players.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Jamshedpur FC on Thursday announced the arrival of Spanish attacking midfielder Javi Hernandez.
The 35-year-old brings a wealth of experience in Indian football, boasting creative playmaking capabilities and attacking gameplay that will bolster the midfield.
Hernandez's trophy cabinet has been enriched by his Indian adventure, with notable titles including the ISL title with ATK in 2019-20, the Durand Cup in 2022, and a runners-up finish in the 2022–23 ISL playoffs with Bengaluru FC. Hernandez's Indian odyssey has spanned five years, with notable stints at Bengaluru FC, Odisha FC, and ATK Mohun Bagan, resulting in 21 goals and 17 assists in the ISL. His stint at Bengaluru FC from 2022–24 was especially notable, as the team won the 2022 Durand Cup and finished as runners-up in the 2022–23 ISL playoffs.
Johar Hernandez!🙏
— Jamshedpur FC (@JamshedpurFC) July 25, 2024
Jamshedpur FC Bring Firepower to the Furnace with Goalscoring Playmaker Javi Hernandez.🦾🔥#JamKeKhelo #IndianSuperLeague #ISL #IndianOilDurandCup #DurandCup2024 #football #indianfootball #announcement pic.twitter.com/Iz2EuD9NeD
Hernandez was thrilled with the move to Jamshedpur FC and 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 Indian football journey began with ATK Mohun Bagan, where he made his mark from 2019 to 2021. Notably, Hernandez played a pivotal role in ATK’s ISL Cup win in the 2019-20 season, scoring twice in the final against Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda. His goals contributed to a resounding 3-1 victory, crowning his team as champions.
Hernandez then moved to Odisha FC for the 2021–22 season, where he consistently impressed. He featured in 19 out of 20 league games, netting six goals and providing five assists throughout the campaign. His performances showcased his skill and dedication, making him a valuable asset to the Kalinga Warriors.
Head coach Jamil lauded the midfielder, saying, "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 Hernandez'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 began his youth career with local side CDF Pizarrales before moving to UD Salamanca in 2002 and then to the Real Madrid Youth Academy at the age of 16 in 2005. He made his senior debut with Real Madrid Castilla in Segunda División B, before stints in Halmstad, Salamanca, CD Ourense, and Burgos CF. Hernandez moved to Romania with Poli Timișoara in 2015, followed by stints in Poland with Gornik Leczna and in Azerbaijan with Gabala. After a two-year return to Poland with Krakow-based club MKS Cracovia, the Spaniard crossed the shores of India.
Raynier Fernandes returns to Odisha FC; Subham Bhattacharya signs for the Kalinga Warriors
ISL side Odisha FC have acquired the services of veteran midfielder Raynier Fernandes ahead of the 2024–25 season. The Indian international is set to return to the Kalinga Warriors on a season-long loan deal from FC Goa.
Get ready for the 𝗥𝗮𝘆𝗻𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄, 𝗢𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗔𝗚𝗔𝗜𝗡! 🍿#OdishaFC #WelcomeRaynier pic.twitter.com/7wTGpbML3D
— Odisha FC (@OdishaFC) July 24, 2024
Fernandes has been an experienced campaigner in the league with 109 appearances. He has made 11 goal contributions. The hard-working midfielder has won 226 duels, completed 329 recoveries, attempted 57 interceptions, made 42 clearances, and averaged 24 passes per game with an 82% passing accuracy.
Before rejoining Odisha FC, Fernandes played for several ISL clubs, including Mumbai City FC and FC Goa. The 28-year-old has also appeared in five matches for the Indian national team.
Fernandes was pivotal in Mumbai City FC’s League Shield and Cup victories in the 2020–21 season and played a key role in Odisha FC’s Super Cup win in 2023.
We've 𝙨𝙪𝙗𝙝𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙙 up our defense! Welcome, Subham. 🔥💜#OdishaFC #AmaTeamAmaGame #KalingaWarriors pic.twitter.com/xKFpn1fXoK
— Odisha FC (@OdishaFC) July 25, 2024
On Thursday, the Kalinga Warriors announced the signing of 17-year-old defender Subham Bhattacharya from the Reliance Foundation Young Champs.
Bhattacharya, who is from West Bengal, played 10 matches in the RF Development League and scored once. While primarily a centre-back, he has also played as a left and right-back in two games.