The Indian Super League (ISL 2024-25) Media Day kicked off in Kolkata, bringing together representatives from seven top clubs: Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, Mohammedan SC, Odisha FC, Jamshedpur FC, Punjab FC, and NorthEast United FC. This highly anticipated event offered an exclusive preview of the upcoming ISL season, featuring a mix of new and seasoned coaches outlining their strategies and ambitions.
New Coaches Make Their ISL Debut
The Media Day showcased fresh talent in the coaching arena with Mohun Bagan Super Giant‘s Jose Molina and Punjab FC‘s Panagiotis Dilmperis making their ISL debuts as head coaches. Alongside them, experienced coaches like Sergio Lobera (Odisha FC), Khalid Jamil (Jamshedpur FC), Juan Pedro Benali (NorthEast United FC), and Carles Cuadrat (East Bengal FC) shared their plans for the season ahead.
Mohammedan SC’s Exciting Entry into ISL
Kicking off the discussions, Mohammedan SC‘s new head coach, Andrey Chernyshov, expressed his enthusiasm about joining the ISL. “It’s a great honor to be part of the ISL family. After winning the I-League last year, our supporters have high expectations, and we are ready to meet them with our best performance,” Chernyshov stated. His captain, Samad Ali Mallick, emphasized the team’s ambition to compete for playoff spots right from the start.
Kolkata’s Powerhouses Poised for Success
Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC, the two Kolkata giants, are confident and well-prepared for the upcoming ISL season. Jose Molina of Mohun Bagan highlighted the team’s rigorous preparation, saying, “We have been training together for a month and continue to make improvements. We are confident in our players and our training regimen.”
Meanwhile, East Bengal FC‘s tactician, Carles Cuadrat, dismissed comparisons to last season’s slow start. “This is a new season with a different squad. We are competitive from day one and ready to perform at our best,” Cuadrat assured.
Odisha FC Aims for ISL Title Under Sergio Lobera
Odisha FC, led by Sergio Lobera, is targeting the ISL title after a strong performance last season. Lobera reflected on the club’s achievements, including reaching the ISL semi-finals and excelling in multiple competitions. “We aim to replicate our successful run and bring joy to our fans with another impressive season,” he stated.
Playoff Contenders: Punjab FC, NorthEast United FC, and Jamshedpur FC
Punjab FC, NorthEast United FC, and Jamshedpur FC are all eyeing playoff spots this season. NorthEast United FC‘s coach, Juan Pedro Benali, discussed the team’s recent success, including winning the Durand Cup. “We aim to build on our Durand Cup success and focus on the ISL. Every game counts, and we strive to win consistently,” Benali emphasized.
Jamshedpur FC’s Khalid Jamil praised the ISL’s new regulations, such as the concussion substitute and requirements for Indian assistant coaches. “These new rules will aid in the growth of Indian football. We are eager to leverage these changes for our team’s advantage,” Jamil added.
Punjab FC’s New Coach and Strategic Acquisitions
Punjab FC welcomes their new head coach, Panagiotis Dilmperis, who expressed satisfaction with the team’s recent signings. “I am thrilled with our new players. They bring great talent and personalities, and together, we aim to achieve greater heights this season,” Dilmperis said. Team captain Luka Majcen highlighted the importance of a positive start for the season.
Upcoming Media Day and ISL 2024-25 Season Kickoff
The second day of the ISL 2024-25 Media Day will take place in Kochi, featuring Mumbai City FC, FC Goa, Chennaiyin FC, Bengaluru FC, Hyderabad FC, and Kerala Blasters FC. The Indian Super League 2024-25 season is set to launch on Friday, September 13, 2024, at 7:30 PM IST on JioCinema and Sports18 network.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights as the ISL 2024-25 season approaches, promising an exhilarating football season filled with intense matches, strategic gameplay, and passionate fan support.
Read More – Chennaiyin FC Strengthens Defense with the Addition of Veteran Defender Laldinliana Renthlei
