How is Carlos Pena doing at Ratchaburi FC?

Carlos Pena parted ways with FC Goa in 2023 to join the Thai outfit.

Spanish coach Carlos Pena‘s arrival at Ratchaburi FC in June 2023 marked a new chapter for both the club and the manager. Pena, fresh off his stint at FC Goa in India, took the reins of a team known for its respectable mid-table finishes in the Thai League 1. While the jury’s still out on a definitive verdict, Pena’s first season at the helm offers a glimpse of a coach with a promising tactical vision, navigating a squad with the potential for greatness, but also a lingering inconsistency.

On the surface, Pena’s record so far paints a picture of a team in transition. In the Thai League, Ratchaburi currently sit comfortably mid-table with 10 wins, five draws, and 10 losses from 25 matches. This inconsistency is further highlighted by their exit from the Thai FA Cup in the Round of 32, a disappointing result considering their aspirations.

However, a closer look reveals a team with a clear identity under Pena’s tutelage. Reports suggest the Spaniard favours a 4-2-3-1 formation, prioritising a strong defensive base while deploying attacking midfielders to create opportunities. This approach is evident in their Thai League Cup campaign, where they’ve enjoyed a perfect record, winning all three group stage matches and progressing to the quarter-finals. Their League Cup success suggests Pena’s tactics can be highly effective when executed flawlessly.

The high point of Pena’s tenure so far, however, has undoubtedly been their run in the Thai League Cup. After dominating their group stage, they overcame a tough challenge in the Round of 16, setting up a mouthwatering quarter-final clash against BG Pathum United. This deep run in the cup competition showcases Pena’s ability to motivate his players and get them to perform at their peak when it matters most.

Perhaps the biggest challenge for Carlos Pena lies in addressing the inconsistency that has plagued Ratchaburi for some time. While they’ve displayed flashes of brilliance, particularly in the cup competitions, replicating that form consistently in the League remains a hurdle. Whether this inconsistency stems from a lack of squad depth, tactical tweaks needed over a longer period, or simply a period of adjustment under a new coach, remains to be seen.

Despite the challenges, Pena’s overall performance deserves a cautious thumbs up. He has instilled a clear tactical philosophy, leading the team to success in cup competitions. The remaining Thai League matches will be a crucial test for both Pena and his players. A strong finish, coupled with a valiant effort in the League Cup, would solidify Pena’s position as a manager capable of taking Ratchaburi to the next level.

However, the upcoming season will be the true test of his long-term vision. Can he address the inconsistency and propel Ratchaburi back into the top bracket of the Thai League? Only time will tell, but with a tactical blueprint in place and a cup run to build on, the future looks cautiously optimistic under Carlos Pena’s leadership at Ratchaburi FC.

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