As the AFC Champions League group stage matches ended back in April, the very next day FC Goa’s head-coach Juan Ferrando called the Goa management and asked when he can return to prepare for the next season.
The intentions were clear- to start early as possible and improve the team in tactical aspects.
“It’s the new season and the new chapter,” Ferrando said on Wednesday in an online media interaction.
FC Goa wisely chose what they will do before the season begins. The prestigious Durand Cup came as an option and the club didn’t leave that opportunity to participate and went on to clinch Asia’s second oldest trophy.
Six games of Durand Cup and some ISL friendlies gave Ferrando chances to check the areas where the team needed to improve more.
“We took part in Durand Cup and played some other friendly games. I am really happy about this because the club trusts in my process,” said Ferrando.
The words are true in many aspects. Last ISL season was truly a revamping process for FC Goa. Later, the club showed impressive glimpses in the AFC Champions League.
“Durand Cup, Champions League are past things. We need to put focus on the present. But, thanks for those difficult matches so we knew how should we perform in future. Of course, we learn from those happened competitions.”
“My target is to improve players day-by-day. I say this because it’s possible to do so. In one game of ninety minutes, several games exist. The oppositions plan changes, the difficulty changes after some minutes of every game so we need to be ready,” said Ferrando.
Last season, FC Goa stood fourth in the points table. Till the last game of the league, it wasn’t sure if the playoff spot will be of Gaurs.
“Yes, everybody has signed good players. Tactically they will improve. We need to push ourselves harder than last season. If any concerns arise like injury or suspensions then other players should be ready to replace them,” said Ferrando.
The first league game itself for FC Goa is against Mumbai City FC. The rivalry both clubs share is dramatic.
“Everyone should control their emotions. Now firstly, we focus on Mumbai. We move forward game by game.”
“I feel happy when I hear good words about FC Goa,” he said.
The club signed Spanish striker Airam Cabrera as the replacement for last season’s Golden Boot winner Igor Angulo. Dylan Fox was also signed from NorthEast United FC as the mandatory Asian signing.
Looking at the Indian transfers, some incomings were accompanied by Ishan Pandita being sold to Jamshedpur FC and two players being loaned out in the transfer window.
What position FC Goa will be at when the league stage ends, and whether they can win their maiden ISL trophy remains the question!
Follow our website for more updates on Indian football.