They have the opportunity to show what they have: Petr Kratky on new players getting chance against Kerala Blasters

Kratky also spoke about the importance of having a balanced squad of young & experienced players.

A riveting clash awaits in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 as Mumbai City FC gears up to face Kerala Blasters FC in a highly anticipated encounter. Currently positioned at fourth and second place in the league respectively, both teams bring a wealth of excitement to the pitch. 

The last showdown between these football powerhouses saw Mumbai City FC emerging victorious, securing three crucial points on their home turf. However, the tables could turn this time, offering Kerala Blasters a chance at redemption. Mumbai City FC faces a challenge with the absence of key players due to red card incidents in their previous match against Mohun Bagan, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming battle. 

Let’s take a look on what head coach Petr Kratky and defender Sanjeev Stalin had to say ahead of the game:

Crucial Last Game Win

Mumbai City FC recently defeated Mohun Bagan and handed them their first loss of the season. The match had everything a football match is expected to have, and when asked how that win will boost the motivation of the players, the coach replied, 

“The result was fantastic. Very important three points at home against a very very tough opponent. It’s a boost for the group. We just have to keep going and connect with the results for the next two games.”

New faces against Kerala Blasters

The last match against The Mariners witnessed several players from the Islanders’ squad being sent off. This will undoubtedly provide an opportunity for fresh faces to step in and gain valuable minutes against Kerala Blasters. When asked about the same, Kratky responded, 

“As I said before, I am very happy with what squad we have. We have a very good squad. So, the people who are coming in have another opportunity. Just looking forward to seeing them play, play more than 10-15 or maybe more. So they have the opportunity to show what they have.”

Balance of Young and Experienced Players

With a plethora of players out due to suspension, Mumbai City FC is set to field a team that boasts a balance of both experienced and younger players. “Yeah, of course. There should always be balance between experience and youth, because the youth deserve the chance to play as well.”

Kerala’s Huge Fan Base 

Kerala Blasters are regarded as one of the most followed fan clubs not only in India but also in Asia. Facing them away poses a formidable challenge, and the tactician has emphasised how his team is strategizing to cope with this formidable task.

“This is another special event in football. So more fans in the stadium is better for everyone, for the league and football in India. Looking forward to it. It’s again a boost for the group to make sure we perform well and get some results over there.”

Player’s mentality ahead of the game

Sanjeev Stalin, ex Kerala Blasters player and currently with Mumbai City FC shed light on how the players are preparing against Kerala Blasters. “Everybody is waiting for this game. Obviously this game will be tough. We already beat them at home 2-1. Now to play against them in their home will be quite challenging. But as a player we love to play these kinds of games.”

Will Mumbai miss Greg Stewart’s creativity?

Greg Stewart, a key creative force for Mumbai, instrumental in orchestrating the game against Mohun Bagan, received a red card at the end of the match and will be absent against Kerala Blasters FC. When asked about whether his suspension will diminish his team’s creativity against The Tuskers, the tactician replied, 

“We have other creative players coming in. So, we have good depth in the team. Greg is a good footballer, but we have other players who are good as well and deserve the opportunity to show it as well.”

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