PANJIM: “This is a new season, a new chapter. We are all positive heading into the new season. The focus, though, is not in the past. We are not thinking about being knocked out in the semis. The important thing is to put focus in the present,” said FC Goa Coach Juan Ferrando who is all set to head the club in his second season of the Indian Super League.
Last season, Juan fell short in the semifinals, but then rounded off last season with an impressive showing in the AFC Champions League in April.
“Of course, from the past experiences, we learn some details. We better understand moments of the game and about the team. The most important thing right now is to focus on the present so that we can have a better future.”
Last season saw Juan Ferrando face a real challenge in his very first season. With the COVID19 pandemic in full swing, the head coach had little over three weeks in the preseason to set up his plans with a team that was largely new. This year, the Gaurs assembled in August for the preseason with the Durand Cup acting as a good platform for the team to gel together.
“I am happy with the pre-season. The club trusted my process and helped to get the squad together as early as possible. Of course that helps in the tactical and technical part of it. However, what it also helps is getting the players to know each other better,” added Ferrando.
“We have to remember that players are not robots. They have emotions. The team (as a unit) has emotions. If we are able to have a healthy relationship, it becomes easier for the tactical information to have an effect on the pitch. For me it’s vital that the players are in a good frame of mind heading into the season – for them to be positive.
“For now, we have to look to be the best against Mumbai, then Jamshedpur and then against each of the opponents we play – step by step and improve day by day. This is the secret in football. The same in business. And in all aspects of life.”
