Manolo Marquez provides important injury updates before Mumbai City game

Raynier Fernandes highlighted the impact their training can pose on the Mumbai City clash.

The upcoming clash between FC Goa and Mumbai City FC promises a riveting showdown between two formidable ISL sides. FC Goa, perched atop the league, enjoy the advantage of home turf, potentially tipping the scales in their favor. The Gaurs’ stellar campaign has showcased their prowess, making them a force to be reckoned with. 

However, Mumbai City FC, riding high on a resounding 4-0 triumph over Bengaluru away, enter the contest as a formidable challenger. Their recent performance underscores their capability to upset the apple cart, adding an element of unpredictability to the impending duel. As the two giants lock horns, the battle for supremacy is poised to unfold in a high-octane spectacle, where both teams, with near-perfect records, vie for dominance in the competitive landscape of the ISL.

Here’s what FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez and midfielder Raynier Fernandes had to say ahead of the game:

Done well in the ISL

FC Goa were one of the favourites to clinch a top-four spot in the ISL before the league began. But, only a few ISL fans expected them to be at the top position.

When Raynier was asked the reason of their outstanding performance, the midfielder highlighted, “It was a new team this year with a new coaching pattern. So, at the beginning it was difficult to get the style the coach wanted. But, we adapted soon, we worked really hard in training, and the important thing is the training session that we have. The mentality, the management, the plan that they set in training is really good for the team, and the players are doing really well.”

Match against Mumbai City FC

The Islanders, like FC Goa, haven’t lost a single game in this ISL season. With Raynier being one of Mumbai’s former players, he explained how the match against the Islanders will be.

“Tomorrow is about us. It’s not about the opponent. The more we do what we have planned, what we have been trained for, we will get the result that we want. In seven games, six matches we are unbeaten, and one draw, so that is giving us the confidence to go in the next game and the games in the future,” he asserted.

Team news

Rowllin Borges was substituted against Kerala Blasters and Brandon Fernandes was missing. Manolo Marquez provided the team news, saying, “No, both won’t be available tomorrow. Brandon will be ready for the next game, and maybe Rowllin. There was an injury in the hamstring as when he (Rowllin) scored the goal.

“Usually, injuries in the hamstring depend, if it is very weak or not. But I feel he (Rowllin) will be ready for the game against Mohun Bagan. Brandon will be out too, and Brison (Fernandes), and Hrithik (Tiwari). These are the four players who will not be available tomorrow.”

Important upcoming games

FC Goa will face Mohun Bagan after they take on Mumbai City FC on Tuesday, two teams that are contenders for the ISL title. Manolo Marquez highlighted the importance of these games.

“Obviously, we are focusing on tomorrow’s match. But, it is true, the feeling is that, now in these two games we will see exactly where FC Goa can arrive this season. I am optimistic about the situation. My experience with the ISL is that these games are important, but one day we will lose. It’s very difficult to not lose in these 22 games. But we’ll try that the defeat doesn’t come tomorrow.”

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