Team Herald
PANJIM: A gloomy day felt ever so bright for FC Goa, kick-starting training for the ISL 2022-23 season on Saturday.
The venue, the picturesque Salvador do Mundo ground on a lush green surface. But the even more heartening feature, especially to Spanish coach Carlos Pena, was the appearance of FC Goa fans after two long years. An exile caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
They cheered their beloved team through light training, and perhaps playing to the occasion, the ominous dark clouds failed to open up allowing for a full session.
After the roughly 90-minute session, Pena, the new coach but someone certainly not new to the club – being a former defender for the Gaurs – radiated joy and expectancy ahead of the impending season.
“I’m very happy to be back at training – especially with the fans. We’ve not seen them for two years,” he said.
Pena was inevitably drawn to what many construe to be FC Goa’s redemption campaign, given their dismal ninth-place finish in the last season.
“It’s not for me to comment on the last season because I wasn’t there,” said the 38-year-old.
Pena was given the reins after interim coach Derrick Perreira who, in turn, was brought it after the sudden departure of Juan Ferrando for ATK Mohun Bagan.
“And perhaps I do not know everything that happened. My mission now is to build a connection between new additions and old players, create a strong team and thrill the fans. I am happy with the squad I have,” Pena said.
Does finishing low at the last edition create a huge challenge? Pena didn’t believe the challenge was any different from anyone else in the ISL.
“It’s the same for all, be they players, coaches. It’s now an opportunity for us to improve,” he said.
The Spaniard’s attention was drawn to compatriot Edu Bedia, the 33-year-old midfielder and captain of the team.
“Yes, Edu is the pillar in the side. He’s seasoned, and has shown the quality and commitment. But we are talking about building a strong team and not individual players,” Pena said.
Pena, who holds a UEFA pro coaching license has played with several players of the current team, besides Bedia. And he looks at that as an advantage “It’s difficult for a coach to know all the players. Having played with many, I do know a lot about them and I will take advantage of that,” Pena said.
