Mumbai City FC part ways with Manolo Marquez following disastrous start to ISL 2026-27
Islanders failed to win a single game under Marquez.
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The former champions of India, Mumbai City FC find themselves languishing at the lower echelon of the points table, following a disappointing start to the new ISL 2026-27 season under former India coach Manolo Marquez.
The Islanders began their campaign with a 2-1 defeat to debutants Churchill Brothers in Fatorda Stadium, Goa. Despite taking the lead first against the Shers in New Delhi, Gurkirat’s goal saw the Islanders settling for a 1-1 draw against Punjab FC.
A goalless draw followed in God’s Own Country where the Tuskers had relatively more expected goals (xG) than the Islanders. In their most recent encounter in the National Capital, the Islanders fell down 3-2 to SC Delhi despite leading 2-1 until regulation time.
Given how Mumbai City FC have been one of the most dominating teams in the league, this is arguably one of the worst starts for the Islanders in recent years.
Islanders roped Manolo with too much hope and expectations
The Spanish mastermind is regarded as one of the most successful coaches in the history of the Indian Super League. He has formerly won the Indian Super League with Hyderabad FC, before FC Goa acquired his services.
His tenure at FC Goa was quite successful, taking the Gaurs to consecutive wins in the AIFF Super Cup in 2025 and the 2025-26 seasons.
The former Indian national team gaffer looked like a perfect replacement to Petr Kratky. Over the years, Mumbai City FC brought in quality coaches like Sergio Lobera, Des Buckingham and Petr Kratky and established themselves as one of the most dominating teams in the league.
What’s next for Islanders and Manolo Marquez?
Photo: Pratik Chorge / Focus Sports / ISL
Under Marquez, Mumbai City FC failed to win a single game in the new season. He often attributed this to the club’s inability to arrange matches against quality opponents in the pre season. Mumbai just scored 4 goals in 4 games and went on to concede six goals.
After parting ways, Sujay Sharma, Director of Football, Mumbai City FC, said:
“As with every ISL club this season, we are navigating a new era for Indian football. In many ways, this marks a fresh start for the top tier of the Indian game. We brought Manolo to the club for his experience and track record in Indian football.”
“Our focus now remains on supporting the first team and achieving our objectives for the ongoing season. Further updates on the squad and coaching setup will be communicated through the club’s official channels in due course.”
Also Read: Mumbai City FC 2-3 SC Delhi: Three major takeaways from ISL 2026-27 clash
The club is yet to announce who will take over as the interim coach. However, it is expected that assistant coach Anthony Fernandes will take over as the interim coach. He has previously stepped in as the interim coach after Des Buckingham’s departure.
There are uncertainties revolving around Manolo’s future in the Indian top tier. It will be interesting to see if Manolo and FC Goa can get back together, especially given Goa’s disastrous campaign in the AFC Challenge League and inability to perform well in the Indian top tier under Gourmangi Singh.
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