Clifford Miranda sends message to fans ahead of Chennaiyin's ISL opener against Mumbai City

Alberto Noguera credited Clifford Miranda for being his main reason for join Chennaiyin FC

Chennaiyin FC begin their Indian Super League 2025-26 campaign on Thursday with a tough fixture against Mumbai City at the Mumbai Football Arena. Given that this will be a short season, a good start will be quite important for both sides.

Clifford Miranda alongside Alberto Noguera, and Pritam Kotal attended the pre-game press conference where the coach and the players spoke about the match against Mumbai City FC and the season ahead. Here is what was said by the coach and the players.

Who will be Chennaiyin FC’s captains this season?

Following the departure of Ryan Edwards and Connor Shields, Chennaiyin FC are seeking their new captains for this season. Clifford Miranda left the choice to the players and they have shortlisted a five-man leadership group.

The CFC manager conceded that Alberto Noguera, Pritam Kotal, Mandar Rao Desai, Elsinho and Mohammed Ali Bemammer will be the five captains of the team. He also added that he wants the rest of the players to also build their qualities as he expects everyone to be leaders within the squad.

Clifford Miranda talks about playing first four games away from home

As the Marina Arena is not yet ready to host games, Chennaiyin FC will be playing their first four games away from home, starting with the fixture against Mumbai City. Clifford Miranda was asked about his thoughts on this tough run of fixtures.

Replying to the question, the CFC head coach said, “If I am being a pessimistic person, in a negative way I would say 4 away games, difficult games in a short league. With very little pre-season, it’s going to be difficult.”

“But I would like to see it in a more positive way. We got to stay together. I would like to see it as an opportunity to further enhance our playing style and our philosophy.”

Why did Alberto Noguera join Chennaiyin FC?

The Marina Machans pulled off a massive coup by signing Alberto Noguera in January. The Spaniard arrives with a host of experience and he is somone who can dictate the game from midfield.

When asked about why he chose to join Chennaiyin FC, Alberto Noguera credited Clifford Miranda mainly for shaping his decision.

The Spaniard said, “Clifford Miranda was the main thing. He called me and I had to answer back. It was a yes from the beginning.”

“I was with Clifford in Goa and we have been talking for many years. I know how it works and everything so it was very easy for me to join this club because they sent me the project and I always want to help the club and try to do a good season ahead because it was a difficult time. Now that everything is sorted out, I think hopefully everything will go well.”

Clifford Miranda’s message to the Chennaiyin FC fans ahead of ISL 2025-26

Chennaiyin FC has underperformed for the last few seasons, and this has led to a significant drop in their home attendance. The fans have been quite vocal about seeing an attractive brand of football with players fighting it out to get a result.

Sending out a message to the fans ahead of the season, Clifford Miranda said, “This is your club. Come, support the club. Come in numbers when we have our home games and watch us on TV when we are away. Coaches come and coaches go, players come and players go but the fans always remain.”

“This is your city; this is your club. Support it irrespective of who is there and who is not. Own your club and you should feel part of the club. We will make everything possible to make you feel that you are part of the club. But it is your responsibility as well to come and support because this is your club.”

The CFC head coach ended his press conference by adding, “I have been in 4 different clubs. This is my 5th club. The same goes with even Real Madrid players and coaches. The fans always remain. We come and we go. Irrespective of who is in the dugout, do come and support the club.

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