FC Goa Coach Manolo Marquez Voices Concerns Over ISL's Unusual Season Structure
In a candid pre-match media interaction at the club headquarters in Panaji on Friday, FC Goa coach Manolo Marquez addressed the peculiarities of the current Indian Super League (ISL) season. The Spanish tactician, now in his sixth year in India, described the campaign as "strange" due to its delayed start—over ten months after the last edition concluded—and its condensed format of just 13 matches to crown a champion.
Marquez Highlights Risks of Shortened League Format
"I have to be polite," Marquez stated, carefully choosing his words to avoid repercussions. "Indian football cannot allow such a situation in the future. There are 13 games in the league now, and we have to play them. You cannot do anything about it." He pointed out that while the schedule allows for one game per week, providing time for training and player recovery—unlike the bio-secure bubble during the COVID-19 pandemic—the limited matches pose significant challenges.
Marquez emphasized that with only one team becoming champion and the bottom team facing relegation, the middle 11 clubs might lose interest midway through the competition if they are neither contending for the title nor threatened by the drop. "This could lead to a lack of competitive spirit and engagement," he warned, underscoring the need for a more balanced and engaging league structure.
FC Goa's Unique Position and Season Goals
For FC Goa, the season presents a distinct challenge. The team has already secured a spot in next season's AFC Champions League Two playoff after winning the Super Cup, a reward similar to that of the ISL champions, aside from the financial incentives of Rs 1.25 crore for the winner and Rs 75 lakh for the runner-up.
"We want to win the first game because if you remove the number zero in your points column early, it's better," Marquez explained. "I am convinced we will have a good season. We want to compete, improve with every game, and aim to move one step forward to be in better condition for next season." He noted that the team has been training since July with continuity, but acknowledged the unpredictability of the shortened season.
Opening Match Against Inter Kashi FC: A Tough Challenge
FC Goa kicks off its campaign with a clash against debutants Inter Kashi FC at the Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Saturday. On paper, it appears uneven: Goa, a perennial title contender, versus Kashi, newcomers to the top tier. However, Marquez sees things differently.
"Inter Kashi are new to the ISL, but they are better than a lot of teams in the league," he said. "They will be very competitive, and with this coach, even more difficult. It won't be a surprise if they finish in a good position." Marquez confirmed that his entire squad is available for the opener, highlighting the team's preparedness.
Inter Kashi, under two-time ISL-winning coach Antonio Lopez Habas, has signaled its intentions with a friendly win over Chennaiyin FC last week. With six foreign players and Habas at the helm, the debutants are expected to pose a significant challenge to opponents.
Habas on Creating a Strong First Impression
Habas, who has won both the ISL and I-League, stressed the importance of a positive start. "It's very important to create a good first impression," he said. "We have to do well in our first season, take many steps in the right direction, but the first step is creating an impression for everyone. We have to give our full energy, work hard, and remain disciplined to get a positive result."
As the ISL season unfolds, Marquez's concerns about the format and competitive balance will be closely watched, while teams like FC Goa and Inter Kashi aim to make their mark in this unique and condensed campaign.
