Football Season Guide

HJK were Veikkausliiga champions in 12 of the past 17 seasons. They failed to even make the top 4 last year though. Despite a slow start come the end of the regular season HJK were third and only 2 points off the leaders. Then came the play-offs with HJK the only team in Play-off I that failed to win a match – 5 draws and 5 defeats. This despite having by far the strongest attack all campaign. Finished with 74 goals in the 32 league matches played but ultimately missed on the medals. Two managers resigned and as of this February the ex-Ilves coach Joonas Rantinen is in charge. He overachieved with the Lynxes in the last 2 seasons and has a proven track record in the Finnish top flight. The large squad was trimmed this winter but most of the key players are still there. Captain Ring will continue to be the main source of confidence in midfield. He had 12 goals and 10 assists last year. Strengthened a lot the left flank with the additions of Montano, Cicale and Lappalainen. All 3 quality players that should start often. Very likely to continue scoring goals at will too. Pukki might be 36-years-old but he remains Finland’s all-time top goalscorer and will seek another 10+ goal campaign. Adding Brochers to help him will only increase the threat up front. The big questions last term and going forward are in defence. Lack much depth at the back. Also, captain Daniel O'Shaughnessy missed most of 2025 injured. Yet to be seen in what shape and form he will be this year. Without him have only one solid centre-back and a bunch of unproven youngsters for the role.