Bengaluru FC have officially kicked off their pre-season preparations for the 2026-27 Indian Super League campaign, with two new foreign signings joining the squad. The Blues have added Spanish midfielder Borja Martinez and Portuguese defender Sandro Embalo, pending completion of their visa formalities. The team began training on July 27, with plans to undergo high-intensity fitness tests at the Inspire Institute of Sport in Bellary.
New Signings Bring European Experience
Borja Martinez, a Spanish midfielder, and Sandro Embalo, a Portuguese defender, are the latest additions to Bengaluru FC's roster. Both players are expected to bolster the squad's depth and bring European-style play to the Indian Super League. Their arrival is contingent on successful visa applications, but the club remains optimistic about their integration into the team. The signings reflect the club's strategy of blending international talent with domestic players to create a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
Pre-Season Schedule and Fitness Focus
The pre-season training camp is scheduled from July 27 to 30, during which players will undergo rigorous high-intensity tests at the Inspire Institute of Sport in Bellary. This period is critical for building fitness and tactical cohesion ahead of the ISL 2026-27 season, which is tentatively set to begin on September 1. The club's director of football, Darren Caldeira, emphasized the importance of pre-season in a statement, noting that it lays the foundation for the entire campaign. “Pre-season is a crucial time for the team to build fitness, understanding, and prepare tactically. We have a solid group of players and the new signings add quality,” Caldeira said.
Head Coach’s Vision for the Season
Pep Munoz is entering his first full season as head coach of Bengaluru FC after taking over mid-last season. He expressed excitement about the potential of the current squad. “We have a very talented group, and I am excited to maximize their potential. The addition of Borja and Sandro gives us more options,” Munoz said. The Spanish coach is known for his attacking style and emphasis on possession, and he will look to implement his philosophy from the start of pre-season. His previous experience in Indian football includes stints with other clubs, and he is eager to make his mark with Bengaluru FC.
Director of Football’s Perspective
Darren Caldeira, the club’s director of football, highlighted the importance of thorough preparation. “The high-intensity tests at the Inspire Institute of Sport are designed to assess and improve the players’ physical condition. This will ensure we are ready for the demands of the ISL,” he explained. Caldeira also praised the new signings, stating that they were identified after careful scouting and fit the club’s long-term vision. He stressed that pre-season is not just about fitness but also about building team spirit and understanding.
Looking Back at the 2025-26 ISL Campaign
Bengaluru FC finished fourth in the 2025-26 ISL season with a record of two wins, three draws, and one loss. While the season was short, the team showed resilience and quality. The fourth-place finish was a stepping stone for the club, and they aim to improve on that performance in the upcoming campaign. The pre-season period will be crucial for addressing weaknesses and building on strengths identified in the previous season.
With the new signings integrated and a focused pre-season plan, Bengaluru FC are hoping to mount a strong challenge for the ISL title in 2026-27. The combination of European experience, domestic talent, and a clear tactical direction under Pep Munoz sets the stage for an exciting season ahead.
