Have to train different players, convince them, says FC Goa coach Manolo Marquez

Panaji: Spanish coach Manolo Marquez wants to bring FC Goa back in the reckoning after two poor seasons in the Indian Super League.
Goa have been runnersup on two occasions in nine editions but have failed to qualify for the playoffs in the last two seasons.
They have now entrusted their faith into Marquez, who has proved himself during his three-year stint at Hyderabad FC where he helped them lift the ISL crown in the 2021-22 edition.
“I finished one very good cycle in Hyderabad. Then you arrive at another team with a lot of happiness and you hope to have a very good season,” Manolo told TOI during an online interaction on Tuesday.
“But now I am the head coach at FC Goa and of course we will try to win every game. The continuity of my players at my former club was clear. Now you must train different players and convince them during the pre-season,” said Manolo.
Goa have already started to rebuild their squad. They recently released seven players which include centre-back Anwar Ali, Redeem Tlang, Makan Chothe, Lenny Rodrigues, Nongdamba Naorem and the Spanish duo of Hernan Santana and Marc Valiente.
Goa’s longest serving foreigner Edu Bedia has also parted ways after six seasons at the club.
“We’ve taken a detailed look into the squad. We have discussed things to improve with the management. While I cannot tell you the details yet, I know that we’ll field a good team, and enjoy a good season,” said the 54-year-old.
Goa have many admirers for their style and philosophy of football. Manolo doesn’t want to change anything but only improve things.
“About the philosophy, I think FC Goa’s importance on youth development and attacking football are something that most teams would want to emulate. It’s good that we already have it,” Manolo said.
Manolo believes this season will once again be competitive although he feels Mumbai City FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant are ahead of others and compared them to the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid in Indian football.
“FC Goa can beat any team in the ISL, be it in home or away conditions. This year, we will try to build a very competitive team by improving on what we already have, and our aim is to compete for the top honours,” said Manolo.