ISL similar to A-League, transition is smooth for me: Petr Kratky

The fixture is set to be Petr Kratky’s first ISL game.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season gears up for an electrifying showdown as Mumbai City FC, led by new head coach Petr Kratky, faces FC Goa in a high-stakes battle. Positioned fourth in the league, Mumbai seeks to make a statement against league leaders FC Goa. 

Petr Kratky, recently appointed after Des Buckingham’s departure, brings a fresh perspective to The Islanders. Hailing from the Czech Republic, Kratky’s transition from player to coach adds an intriguing dimension. Mumbai, buoyed by a significant win against Bengaluru FC, aims to capitalise on the momentum. The clash holds immense significance for both team and coach, shaping the narrative of their respective journeys in the ISL 2023-24 season. 

Let’s take a look on what Petr Kratky, Mumbai City FC’s new manager and Jayesh Rane have to say ahead of the game:

Jayesh’ response to the coaching change

Ex-Mumbai City FC head coach Des Buckingham departed the team a fortnight ago. Since then, The Islanders’ management sought a replacement, nominating Petr Kratky as the ideal candidate. When asked about the players’ reaction to this change, Jayesh replied,

“It’s obviously difficult, but where we are now, I think the team is in good confidence. It’s the same style of play, what the coach is doing and Des used to do, so I don’t think it will be a difficult thing to adapt. I am sure the team is doing well and we will continue to do it ahead.”

First game in the ISL

Petr Kratky arrived at Mumbai City FC from sister club Melbourne City FC, which is also a part of City Football Group(CFG). This is his first time in India and his first time managing in the ISL. The coach expressed his delight and highlighted, 

“We did our homework about the Indian Super League and FC Goa. Obviously, a very short time around for me, because I come from Australia. In the meantime, I did some of my homework, talked to my colleagues about what’s coming up because I will rely on them, most of the time at the moment, because obviously I am new.”

“It’s very similar to A League, which makes the transition much much smoother for me. Again, looking forward to the game. We had this conversation this morning about what we can expect from Goa. They are the top team, so I am actually excited and looking forward to this game, so I can see where the team is at against the best”, the tactician added.

Handling the team for the first time

This is the first time Petr Kratky is handling a team as the head coach. When asked how does he feel about the same and facing ISL’s top teams in this month, the coach emphasised, 

“I am actually excited because I want to see our team against the top. So, as soon as I can see and compare where we are at, it’s much better to understand where we have to go, going forward. So, yes it will be a busy schedule. We have to be really intelligent and smart on how we handle the team.”

Coming in after a win

The Islanders thrashed aside a star studded Bengaluru FC last week. Jayesh Rane explains the feeling around the dressing room and how the win will help boost their confidence and motivation against FC Goa. He said, 

“I think it’s good when you are coming with a win. It gives a lot of confidence to us, and we do what we do, we are here to win and to do our best and get all three points.”

Relying on the assistant coaches

With a brief time frame before the game against FC Goa, Kratky acknowledges the time constraints and expresses reliance on his assistant coaches. He emphasises the need to understand both his team and the opposition thoroughly in preparation for the upcoming match,

“Yes, hundred percent. They are quality people. That’s very important. I can rely on them. The handover from Des, knowing the insides, they know the way how we want to play. They treat the team very well, when Des was away and I wasn’t here yet. So, this is very important. I will rely on them because they have good knowledge of the league.”

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