Football Season Guide

Honka are officially the richest club in Finland. Yet they finished only 3rd last season and 9 points behind the champions. This despite Honka having by far the best attack in the league – 53 goals scored in 27 matches. The main reason why much stronger push towards the title was missed were the lack of wins in direct matches against the top 2 sides. Apart from that Honka were solid and deserved the bronze medals. Coach Vasara will be in charge for sixth consecutive year and Honka’s financial strength meant that only one of their regulars from last season left the squad in the winter. Rui Modesto was Honka’s main assist-provider in 2022. He has been replaced already with the signing of Clésio Baúque, expected to take his role on the left flank. Ball-winning midfielder Ortiz is the only other notable newcomer, with the group pretty much staying intact. After his breakthrough year in 2022 now the 20-year-old Sadiku is expected to score even more goals. Honka should continue to dominate in midfield too where the German-Dutch duo Krebs-Jansen dictate the tempo. The main area that remains a concern is the defensive line. Currently have only 3 typical centre-backs in their ranks, all good players but all prone to injuries too. Koski and Hernandez will continue to be the preferred regulars anyway, but it won’t be a surprise if, before the transfer window shuts in late April, Honka add another body or two to their defence. On goal captain Rudakov remains irreplaceable and he is one of the best goalies in the league.