Football

ISL 2022-23: I had confidence that we could do it despite all circumstances – ATK Mohun Bagan’s Juan Ferrando on winning title

ATK Mohun Bagan’s head coach Juan Ferrando has revealed he had the confidence that they could go all the way in the recently concluded Hero Indian Super League 2022-23. The Mariners defeated Bengaluru FC on penalties in the final to come out as winners of the ninth season.

In fact, ATK Mohun Bagan was facing many issues in the season due to multiple injuries to their main players however they were able to come up with a collective show. The Spaniard was able to make the most of his available resources as he got the best out of his players.

After finishing third in the points table with 10 wins in 20 league stage matches, Juan Ferrando’s team defeated Odisha FC in the first knockout by 2-0. Subsequently, they bested 2021-22 champions Hyderabad FC on penalties in the semifinals before getting the best out of the Blues in the all-important final.

“I was sure our squad was good enough and we could do it despite all the circumstances. I don’t know how to express it, I just felt it that way and I told the management,” Ferrando spoke to KhelNow in an exclusive interview.

“It was Christmas time. We were all upset and looking to add some players to the squad because we only had three foreigners fully fit. It was then that it became clear that the need to incorporate these players had to be a priority,” he added.

“Winning the ISL must be a motivation for all of us. For me as a coach, for the staff and for the players in their effort to excel. We are a professional team and we have to behave as such,” he said.

In fact, ATK Mohun Bagan’s Tiri and Joni Kauko missed the final match against Bengaluru FC due to their respective injuries but supported the team from the sidelines.

“Tiri may be able to recover for the Super Cup, but I think Joni might need a little more time,” he mentioned.

The gaffer added that the prize would not have been so sweet had they not faced obstacles during the ninth season.

“In football, as in life, when you believe in something, you must try to carry your idea to the end. If there were no obstacles, perhaps the prize would not be so sweet,” he commented.

ATK Mohun Bagan will face Gokulam Kerala on Monday in the group stage of the Super Cup.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Pro Kabaddi League 2024: Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Dabang Delhi K.C. – Match Preview

The inaugural champions Jaipur Pink Panthers will take the mat against Dabang Delhi K.C. in… Read More

November 21, 2024

Robert Lewandowski recalls playing under ‘difficult’ Pep Guardiola; explains how ex-Barcelona coach changed

Barcelona’s striker Robert Lewandowski recalled how Pep Guardiola was a difficult coach to play under… Read More

November 21, 2024

Ayush Chikkara aspires to be a ‘regular’ in Mumbai City FC’s team, says doesn’t want to take any external pressure

Mumbai City FC forward Ayush Chikkara wants to find a regular place in Petr Kratky’s… Read More

November 21, 2024

Carlos Alcaraz lauds Rafael Nadal’s legacy after retirement

World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz hailed Rafael Nadal’s legacy after the veteran Spaniard retired from the… Read More

November 21, 2024

Jamshedpur FC’s defender Ashutosh Mehta credits ‘100% professional’ Khalid Jamil for having a big impact in his life

Jamshedpur FC full-back Ashutosh Mehta has given credit to head coach Khalid Jamil for playing… Read More

November 21, 2024

Lakers star LeBron James says he’s taking a break from social media

Los Angeles Lakers’s superstar LeBron James has revealed he is taking a break from social… Read More

November 21, 2024