Ilicali's Gamble on Jakirovic Bears Fruit

When Acun Ilicali appointed Sergej Jakirovic as Hull City head coach in early 2025, many questioned the decision. The Turkish owner had sacked a popular manager, and Jakirovic arrived with limited experience in English football. Fast-forward to now, and the Tigers are firmly in the Championship promotion race, proving the doubters wrong.

The Background: A Risky Appointment

Ilicali has never been afraid to make bold moves. Since taking over Hull City in January 2022, he has invested heavily in the squad and infrastructure. However, the decision to part ways with a fan-favourite manager and replace him with Jakirovic—a relatively unknown Croatian coach—raised eyebrows. Critics questioned whether Jakirovic could adapt to the physical demands of the Championship.

Statistically, Hull were mid-table when Jakirovic took over. They had lost three of their previous five matches and were leaking goals. The new manager needed to shore up the defence while maintaining attacking flair. In his first ten games, the team won only four, leaving many to wonder if Ilicali had made a costly error.

Tactical Adjustments and Resurgent Form

Jakirovic implemented a high-pressing system that required intense fitness and organisation. Initially, the players struggled to adapt, but over time, the results improved. Hull's defensive record has been transformed: they have kept clean sheets in six of their last eight matches. Offensively, they have scored in every game since mid-February, averaging 2.1 goals per match.

Key to this turnaround has been the form of striker Joe Gelhardt. The on-loan Leeds forward has netted eight times in his last nine appearances under Jakirovic. The manager's tactical tweak of playing Gelhardt slightly deeper, linking midfield and attack, has unlocked his potential. Hull now sit third in the Championship, just three points off automatic promotion places with nine games remaining.

Impact on the Promotion Race and FPL Considerations

Hull's surge has shaken up the Championship title race. They have closed the gap on league leaders Burnley and hold a five-point cushion over seventh-placed Norwich. With fixtures against fellow promotion chasers Sheffield United and Middlesbrough still to come, the Tigers have a defining run-in.

  • Hull have won seven of their last nine matches, the best form in the division.
  • Their goal difference has improved from +2 to +18 under Jakirovic.
  • Joe Gelhardt is now the second-highest owned forward in FPL Championship mode, with a price rise of £0.6m.

For Fantasy Premier League players, Gelhardt and midfielder Ozan Tufan are must-haves for the final stretch. Tufan has recorded five assists in his last six games, while Gelhardt's consistency makes him a reliable captain pick. Their upcoming fixtures include a favourable run against teams in the bottom half, so investment is recommended.

What Comes Next: Proving It on the Big Stage

Hull's next three matches are against playoff contenders Luton, West Brom, and Watford. If they emerge unscathed, they could secure automatic promotion for the first time since 2016. Ilicali's faith in Jakirovic will be fully vindicated. The doubters have become believers, but the real test lies in the run-in.

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