Manolo assures to bring in Real Madrid mentality to SC East Bengal

Manolo, who is replacing Robbie Fowler in East Bengal’s second ISL season, said that his coaching methods will reflect much of what he has assimilated during his long association with the La Liga giant.

Published : Oct 18, 2021 21:13 IST

Representative Image:“Both of us come from Real Madrid and thus have a strong mentality. This means that we will be looking to win every match,” said Manolo’s assistant Angel Puebla, who did the translation for the head coach.

The fans of SC East Bengal can expect the team to follow the winning mentality and attitude of Real Madrid when it embarks on the Indian Super League journey, said its new coach Jose Manuel (Manolo) Diaz.

The Spanish coach, who is replacing the Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler in East Bengal’s second ISL season, said that his coaching methods will reflect much of what he has assimilated during his long association with the La Liga giant.

Manolo had last coached the Real Madrid B side before accepting the East Bengal offer.

“Both of us come from Real Madrid and thus have a strong mentality. This means that we will be looking to win every match,” said Manolo’s assistant Angel Puebla, who did the translation for the head coach.

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On being asked about the possible changes in East Bengal's playing style, Manolo said the team will adopt a flexible approach. “We will decide the team formation depending on the opponent and the shape of the squad. We will try to adapt to different situations before the match and during the match. Our decision making in the tournament will be determined by these aspects,” he said.

Speaking about the Kolkata Derby which will see SC East Bengal taking on its traditional rival ATK Mohun Bagan in its second match on November 27, Manolo said that his squad is prepared for a win. “We want to win it not only for three points but we also want want see our fans happy,” Manolo said.

East Bengal had lost both the derbies in the previous ISL season. Speaking about East Bengal’s pre-season training, Manolo said the team is progressing well. “We are happy in the way the team is progressing. But we have made improvement in technical, tactical, and physical aspects. Our principle is hard work, strong mentality and optimism and we are sure this bring out the best in the team,” he said.