Says developing talent, great team bond plan for Indian football’s future
PANAJI
In recent discussions, Coach Manolo Marquez, who has made a significant impact on Indian football, opened up about his unique situation of managing both FC Goa and the Indian national team. His reflections offer a comprehensive look into his gratitude, challenges, and aspirations for Indian football.
Manolo Marquez expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Indian Football Federation and FC Goa for the chance to take on the role of head coach for both the national team and the club. He has been in India for five years, during which he has developed a deep connection with the country and its football culture. Marquez’s experience in Indian football has shaped his understanding and commitment to the sport in the region.
Handling the responsibilities of both FC Goa and the Indian national team presents its own set of challenges, particularly regarding workload and logistical issues like visa complications. Despite these hurdles, Marquez highlighted that managing dual roles is not uncommon globally and stressed the importance of professionalism and balance. His ability to juggle these responsibilities reflects his dedication and strategic approach to both roles.
Marquez’s main goal for the Indian national team is to elevate the level of players individually and collectively. He is focused on laying a strong foundation for the team, emphasizing long-term development over immediate results. His vision involves nurturing talent and building a cohesive team that can thrive in the future.
A significant part of Marquez’s strategy involves developing a robust scouting system and integrating young talents into the national setup. He pointed out the importance of having an Indian coach for the national team in the future, as this would provide valuable local insight and understanding. This move would help in aligning the team’s development with the country’s football ecosystem.
One of the key challenges Marquez faces is coordinating with the Indian Super League (ISL) schedules and ensuring player availability. The overlap between the ISL season and international fixtures, particularly during the first FIFA window, poses difficulties. However, Marquez remains optimistic about fielding a competitive team despite these scheduling conflicts.
Marquez’s training programs are designed to enhance both skill development and tactical awareness. He emphasizes the importance of team cohesion and consistency, believing that a unified approach helps players adapt and perform better. His focus on these aspects is crucial for building a well-rounded and effective team.
Concerns about potential conflicts of interest due to his dual roles have been addressed by Marquez, who believes that the roles are manageable and professional. He drew parallels with other coaches who have successfully managed similar situations, demonstrating that it is possible to handle both roles effectively with proper planning and professionalism.
Marquez acknowledged the current lack of a standout Indian striker and has been working on developing young talent at FC Goa to address this gap. The creation of a reliable number 9 is essential for the national team’s future success, and Marquez’s efforts are aimed at filling this crucial position.
Marquez’s expectation from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) is to continue supporting his initiatives, focusing on collaboration and shared goals. He believes that mutual support will be vital for achieving long-term success and advancing Indian football.
Marquez discussed how he manages external criticism and varying opinions. He emphasized the importance of staying true to professional beliefs and focusing on the task at hand, rather than getting swayed by public opinion. This approach helps him maintain clarity and direction in his roles.
Coach Manolo Marquez’s approach to his dual roles in Indian football highlights his commitment to improving the sport at multiple levels. His vision for the future is centered on long-term player development and building a strong team foundation. Despite facing challenges like managing dual responsibilities and coordinating with the ISL, Marquez remains dedicated and proactive.
His openness about the difficulties he encounters and his strategic approach to overcoming them demonstrate a thoughtful and ambitious mindset.
