While political leaders and legislators changed parties and affiliations at a breezy pace in Goa, there was similar action witnessed on the football pitch too. FC Goa's head coach Juan Ferrando, who was in the second year of his contract, switched over to ATK Mohun Bagan at short notice leaving Goans in utter shock and disbelief.
Just like political leaders, the tenures of coaches at FC Goa have been very unpredictable. Ferrando triggered the release clause in his contract to exit the club early into the 2020-21 edition of the league, unfortunately at a time when FC Goa was just beginning to find its feet. If we may recall, Spanish coach Sergio Lobera whose brand of football came in for praise across the country was sacked early 2020 when the league was at its fag end with the team cruising towards a top finish.Coaches leaving the club midway into the league not only impacts the team and their performance but has a major fallout on the fans religiously following the club. FC Goa team management may have not disappointed fans after the exit of Brazilian coach Zico. Lobera and Ferrando have been notable choices that kept the momentum going. But with every exit, public sentiment has been hit and despondency set in. This is a ticklish issue that has no quick fixes, especially when a team is relying on international coaches and release clauses are part and parcel of contracts.
After an encouraging first year, fans were looking upon the 40-year-old Ferrando with a high level of expectation despite the disastrous start of three straight defeats in this edition of ISL, one of the worst performances since 2016. An entertaining win to open their account against East Bengal, followed by an intense embrace of skipper Edu Bedia and Ferrando was a clear reflection of the determination and team spirit. Moments like these ignite new hopes, but a coach exiting in the midst of this has a crippling effect on all.
As much as it is about winning and fan following, coaches and players have their eyes on contracts and offers all over the world. Financial viability and working relations are crucial components of a healthy environment between team owners and coaches. The most frustrating part of this development is that Ferrando caught the club unawares even after the team played out a 1-1 draw against Hyderabad on Saturday.
The FC Goa team management has quickly moved in to reassure fans by showcasing the existing strength of coaches and support staff. However, with both Lobera and Ferrando leaving huge imprints on Goan football, each providing a distinctly entertaining brand of football, it would be tough for any incumbent to fill in the vacuum and also find immediate acceptability.
Football lovers in Goa have been treated to some magical soccer, with international coaches rebuilding the craze for the sport which was on the wane over the years. FC Goa has succeeded in creating a brand around which there is solidarity, patriotism, sentiments and oneness of the people of Goa. When clubs, coaches and players bind themselves in contract, we wish they realize there is so much beyond those dotted lines.
