PANAJI
Ahead of FC Goa’s opening match in the Indian Super League (ISL) Season 11, head coach Manolo Marquez shared his thoughts with The Goan. FC Goa is set to face Jamshedpur FC on Tuesday in their first game of the season.
Marquez, who is entering his second season with FC Goa, acknowledged that the upcoming season will be challenging. “This season will be very difficult because many teams are competing for the top positions, including the shield and the top four spots. But we are one of those teams aiming for the maximum. We need to approach each game with focus and manage the season game by game,” Marquez said.
The coach addressed the issue of injuries, a concern as the season begins. “Injuries at the start of the season are always tough. We knew about Sandesh’s injury and Iker’s ACL issue. Lara’s injury, which happened just before the season started, was unfortunate. However, we believe our team is strong enough to handle these setbacks. We have a well-balanced squad and are optimistic about the season,” Marquez explained.
Marquez expressed his heightened ambition for this season. “I am more motivated than last season. We need to be more ambitious and mentally strong. Last season was good, but it could have been better. It’s not about complaining but about continuing to push forward and staying focused,” he said.
Regarding FC Goa’s squad changes, Marquez noted, “This season’s squad is different and more balanced compared to last season’s. While we had standout individual players last year, this team seems stronger as a unit. The results will speak for themselves.”
Marquez also commented on the new additions to the team, noting the importance of having key players. “Finding a player like Bartholomew Ogbeche is rare. We have Armando, who is a crucial player, but finding such quality and leadership is exceptional. Ogbeche’s mentality and performance set a high standard,” he added.
Reflecting on FC Goa’s recent win in the Bhausaheb Bandodkar Trophy, Marquez believes it has positively impacted the team. “The victory in the tournament was beneficial, especially with the injuries. It boosted the players’ confidence and belief in our strategies. Players like Bryson and Nemil gained valuable experience, which will help them this season,” Marquez said.
Finally, Marquez had a message for FC Goa’s fans. “The team has to perform well to keep the fans coming to the stadium. We appreciate the support of our loyal fans and hope to give them more reasons to cheer for us. Last season, the crowd was very supportive, and we hope to continue earning their support,” he stated.
Marquez also revealed why and how Armando signed with FC Goa despite other offers. “Armando and I have mutual connections and common friends from Spain. We had discussions about the opportunity at FC Goa, and after a lengthy conversation, he chose to join us over other offers, including one from Kerala Blasters,” Marquez concluded.
