Alexandre Guimaraes is happy with the outcome of Mumbai City FC’s pre-season in Spain. The Costa Rican, who continues as Mumbai City FC’s chief coach for the second successive season, talks of the expectations he has from his players, especially the Indians.
Question: What, in your view, is the most attractive aspect of the ISL?
Answer: The league has taken a very important turn this season, and in a year or two, the ISL will have its own class of players. It means we will see less of the bigger stars. As the League grows, the quality of the talent will grow too, and it will be a more attractive prospect for players to come and be a part of this League.
Having already worked with the players during the pre-season, what are your expectations from them in Season Four?
During the pre-season, the team worked hard and gelled well. The players from last season know the brand of football we want to play. And after spending a month in Spain, I can confidently say that the entire squad is on the same page.
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Six Indians on the field for the first time in the ISL is a healthy development for Indian football. What are your thoughts on this?
This year more than 50 per cent of the line-up will be Indians. The players know what is expected of them, know that the level of the game will depend largely on them. The Indian players have to up the ante and support their international team-mates to improve the quality of the game from last season.
What are the reasons for taking up the Mumbai City FC assignment?
This city and the club has a feel-good factor. I and my family felt really nice last time around; more than that, the management backed me throughout. The CEO and the co-owners have given me everything and then some more to help me do a good job. Another reason for coming back are our fans. Last season, they were tremendous and helped us on our way to the semis.
‘As the League grows, the quality of the talent will grow too, and it will be a more attractive prospect for players to come and be a part of this League.’
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