PANAJI
FC Goa had an excellent ISL season this year wherein the Gaurs finished at second position in the league stage behind Mohun Bagan to directly qualify for the semi-finals for a record eighth time. Ahead of their high-profile semi-final clash against Bengaluru FC, FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez spoke to The Goan for an exclusive interview.
How would you describe FC Goa's performance this ISL season?
This season has been a journey of character, mentality and passion. We had a difficult start, but the way the team responded, fought back and improved as the season progressed was very good. We competed for the ISL League Shield till nearly the very end, and finally finished second in a highly competitive league. This shows the quality and mentality of our squad.
FC Goa finished second in the points table behind Mohun Bagan, thereby missing out on the League Shield. Are you satisfied with the team’s performance?
As a coach - and it is the same for a player also - you always want to win every competition you participate in. Finishing second is a great achievement, but of course, we wanted to win the Shield. Finally, we finished second. I’m proud of the way the team reacted to the early setbacks and put in consistent performances to finish the league season strongly.
FC Goa had a nightmarish start, winning just one of their first six games. What was the reason for the poor start?
Well, everyone knows how some of our key players were surrounded due to injury, and we did not want to do it in haste. It meant that adapting to new ideas, and so on took some time. But what is wonderful with this team, is that everyone believed in the team - the fans, the management, the technical staff, the team themselves - and we knew that once we settled in, our results would improve.
What do you think was the turning point that led to FC Goa’s strong comeback to finish second in the league?
To be honest, it was not one moment - early on when the going was tough, we still managed some positive results like the draws against Mohammedan SC and North East United FC, the win against East Bengal and so on. In the other games as well, we did play well in parts. There was hence never a question about the ability, and that helped us maintain our confidence and belief. Then we beat Bengaluru FC and Punjab FC who were then at the top of the points table. From that point, the players gained rhythm, and we started playing with more intensity and control. The squad showed great determination to recover from the slow start.
What are the major areas of concern that the Gaurs need to improve upon?
Numbers will tell you that we've done well in attack and defence, but we can do better in both. Also, in some games, we missed control in some moments, which is also something that we have been working on.
Handling the dual responsibility of FC Goa head coach and India national team coach. How challenging has it been?
It’s a challenge but also an honour. And I'm neither the first person to do so, not will I be the last. Both roles require a lot of attention, planning and effort, but I have a fantastic staff at FC Goa and with the national team who help manage the workload. The key is balance and ensuring that both teams continue to develop and perform at their best.
FC Goa has reached the ISL finals twice - in 2015 and 2019. Do you think the Gaurs can win their maiden ISL title this time?
We have a strong squad with great mentality and experience. And I know that the whole state of Goa really wants this trophy. The players have shown they can compete with the best and now it’s about staying focused, giving our best in the upcoming knockouts and taking that final step to win the title. You can never promise results in football, but I can promise you that we will try our absolute best.
