Manolo Marquez reveals why FC Goa signed Laxmikant Kattimani

The Spaniard has previously worked with the goal custodian at Hyderabad FC.

Manolo Marquez’s FC Goa has had a topsy-turvy start to the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) season. Despite a win in their last game against East Bengal in the last game, the Gaurs find themselves in a precarious position with just 4 points in 3 games. The tactician will be desperate to get their ISL campaign on track after a lackluster start.

Ahead of the upcoming match against NorthEast United FC, FC Goa’s head coach addressed questions about the club’s decision to bring in veteran goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani during the summer.

The club chose not to extend Dheeraj Singh’s contract and mutually terminated Arshdeep Singh’s contract despite having signed an extension with him. 

When asked about the rationale for bringing Kattimani to FC Goa, Marquez gave a candid response, acknowledging the ongoing discussions about the club’s defensive setup. “In terms of defense, I know it is a topic of discussion, but that is the reality,” Manolo Marquez said, acknowledging the challenges his side has faced defensively this season.

He further elaborated on the situation with the team’s defense, particularly the center-backs. “The center-backs are the same couple after the injury of Sandesh (Jhingan). And my feeling is that Odei (Onaindia) and Nim (Dorjee Tamang), they performed in a good way last season,” Manolo Marquez explained.

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He pointed out that the entire team’s performance contributes to the defensive issues. “I think that the work is for all the team. It’s true that maybe we are defending not better or bad. Maybe the other team is creating more chances, especially in the game against Mohammedan. Not so much in the first game.”

Speaking about Kattimani specifically, Manolo Marquez expressed his confidence in the goalkeeper, reflecting on their past together. “I think you know my opinion. This is my fifth season here, and I was very lucky to spend three wonderful seasons. In my first season, Kattimani was not the first choice—Subrata (Paul) was—but he deserved to enter the team after six or seven games.” 

Marquez highlighted Kattimani’s resilience, especially after returning from a serious ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injury. “It’s true, and I spoke with him about this, that after one ACL and just coming back, it’s very difficult. But he is again a very good professional, and we are very confident in Kattimani from day one.”

The coach also emphasized Kattimani’s crucial role in FC Goa’s style of play, praising his skill set and professionalism. “He knows perfectly. When we won the ISL, it’s not only because he saved penalties in the final—it’s about that he’s a goalkeeper that in our style of play is very complete,” Marquez concluded.

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