Football Season Guide

Mariehamn had a trouble-free 2022 and, despite being tipped to struggle at the beginning of last season, the islanders managed to stay well out of trouble and had safety secured as early as round 20. Despite finishing only 10th Mariehamn had a 13-point lead over Lahti at the end of the season and they were never under too much pressure. Being located on an island isolated from the mainland gives Mariehamn distinct advantage at home as every visiting team face a tricky journey. However, the same is valid for Mariehamn’s away games where they are at a disadvantage. Once again how the season will pan out will depend heavily on how many wins at home can be achieved. The most important departures during the off-season were that of star playmaker Baliso and the dangerous striker Owoeri. Veteran Abubakari also left, but he spent more than half of 2022 injured, so this was probably a good move as it freed some precious money for new signings. Centre-back Henrique, holding midfielder Ndom and winger Anini Jr. are the most notable of the only 6 new signings. They join a small group of players, with the main lack of depth being in midfield where the Cameroonian duo Ndom-Ngamba will be crucial. Apart from them 2, the only other typical inner midfielders were a bunch of teenagers from the academy so Mariehamn are still actively looking for strengthening in that area. Englishman Hopcutt joined only in late summer and he had limited impact near the end of last season. Now in his first proper season at the club he is expected to be key figure behind the duo of very dangerous strikers De-Olawale. Mariehamn might have a 19-year-old goalkeeper between the posts (Henriksson) but in front of him the 4 main starters in defence are all age 31 and older so there is lots of experience at the back. Mariehamn must strengthen in midfield but apart from that their squad looks ready to tackle the challenges of a new season.