Nepal will have many debutants in SAFF Championship 2023: Vincenzo Alberto Annese

Vincenzo Alberto Annese will be looking to capitalize on his experience in India with a new-look side.

Things have changed drastically for the Nepal national team since the historic final run in SAFF Championship 2021. New players pervade the squad, then manager Abdullah Almutairi left under dire circumstances.

Aiming to regroup for this edition, the Gorkhalis are now under Vincenzo Alberto Annese, who left NorthEast United to try a hand at managing his first-ever national side.

The Italian spoke to the media ahead of his first big challenge at the international level:

Limited preparations

Nepal have played just four times under Annese, with less than five tactical sessions since March.

The Italian was vocal about the lack of ideal preparation time in the press conference.

"So far, we have had a short time to prepare. I've been with the team for three and a half months," he said.

Annese however, seemed happy with the fitness of the squad.

"Fitness levels in the team is pretty good. We've not had many tactical sessions. I'd have loved to have had more time as a coach. We need to work with what we have. I'm positive about the team," he added.

A much-needed exposure for a young team

Annese maintained his intentions to be competitive in the tournament, keeping the realistic target of getting exposure for a young bunch of players.

"It's very important for us to be a part of this tournament," he said. "We'll play against important teams - India, Kuwait and Pakistan."

Acknowledging his first major test with a national team, the Italian also mentioned the tournament is a valuable platform for him to knack up experience.

"I'm proud to be a part of this tournament and I hope to do well," Annese said. "I hope to get international experience as a coach and from a new generation of Nepal."

Visibility in India

Having spent three years in the Indian football circuit, Vincenzo Alberto Annese said the SAFF Championship can be a vital platform for Nepal's youngsters to attract interests from Indian clubs.

The tactician won the I-League twice with Gokulam Kerala FC and then joined a struggling NorthEast United mid-season, following the sacking of Marco Balbul.

"We'll have many debutants in the tournament," he revealed. "Maybe some players will get more visibility in Indian football which is developing day by day."