We will give hundred percent every single day, says Kerala Blasters head coach Mikael Stahre ahead of ISL 2024-25

The Swedish manager met the press ahead of the new season.

Kerala Blasters FC are positive about their chances in the Indian Super League(ISL) 2024-25 season under the newly appointed head coach Mikael Stahre. The manager met with the media, joined by squad members Milos Drincic, Ishan Pandita and Sachin Suresh at a press conference in Kochi. He made a strong first impression, quickly endearing himself to the media with his energetic personality and light-hearted perspective.

On the new faces in attack

On being asked about the departure of Dimitrios Diamantakos, the top-scorer for the club in the previous season, Mikael Stahre stated, “Obviously he’s a good player, but it’s normal in football. I would rather focus on the ones who wear the yellow shirt. We have a great group and have signed a new striker. My focus must be on the players we have now.”

When asked about his thoughts on the Blasters’ bolstering their attack and Noah Sadaoui’s early impact he replied, “It’s not only about the players who play upfront. It’s about playing as a group and I am the leader of this group. Every player has different qualities and I am responsible for putting the pieces together to make it work. Sadaoui is a highly driven player. He’s eager to score goals and is also working hard to stay fit and remain available.”

Thoughts on Durand Cup exit

In light of Kerala Blasters having to face only two strong opponents in the Durand Cup fixtures, Mikael Stahre was asked about how he weighs the standard of football the team plays following their exit in the quarter-finals. The manager summarised, “I have watched a lot of the ISL teams showcasing great performances this season compared to the previous season. We were not at our best against Bengaluru FC, it still was an even game. We have to admit that they were better at creating chances.

“However, had we not conceded that big chance in the final 20 seconds, the game would have gone to penalties, and the same team went on to lose against Mohun Bagan in penalties in the semi-final. It is a fine line between winning and losing and that’s why we have to work hard and hope luck is on our side. With more league games ahead, we hope to score more goals and concede fewer.”

Sachin Suresh on redemption before the new season

When asked about his injury last season, goalkeeper Sachin Suresh reflected, “Initially, I was disappointed since the injury came when I was in good form, but I soon accepted that injuries are part of the game. The immense support from the coaches, staff, physios, doctors, and my family was incredibly helpful during this time. My aim was to recover quickly and regain my fitness. I was really happy to have made my comeback to the team against Bengaluru in the Durand Cup. Considering I only trained for two weeks prior to the game, I believe I did my best. I’m confident we will be better in the league, and I’ll give 100 percent for the club.”

The shotstopper had to come off the bench, five minutes into the game against Bengaluru as Som Kumar got injured. When asked about playing almost the entire match after coming off the bench, especially given his return from a long injury, he said, “I always prepare for every match as if I will play the full 90 minutes, regardless of whether I start the game or come off the bench. The coach has always told us that starters and substitutes are equally important in the game. Sometimes, the substitutes can have a significant impact and become match-winners. Football is never predictable, so I was ready to contribute. I was confident and felt no pressure when coming off the bench.”

Vukomanovic’s influence on the club

The former coach Ivan Vukomanovic had a very close relationship with the fans. In response to the question of whether it puts him under any pressure, Mikael Stahre said, “I am completely respectful of the previous coach. Everyone speaks highly of him. I am here to play my football and I have my own ways to manage the activities at the club. I will have my own opinion to put together my team.”

Tactics and vision for the new season.

Regarding, his vision and tactical tweaks for the squad, the manager responded, “I always try to bring energy to the table. I aim to create an environment with energy, so that the players will love to come to training. I hope I can inspire the players to give that extra bit of energy in every game.”

“I think it’s important that the technical and tactical aspects have to be specific and precise. It’s more about bringing the right quality and mentality to the squad. We will have plenty of opinions in the locker room, but at the end of the day, it’s my responsibility to optimise every single player. Its about bringing the right quality and mentality in the squad,” said Mikael Stahre.

“We have a mix of youth and experience here in Kerala Blasters, but when they put on the yellow shirt, we become a family. This aspect of my job is fascinating, not just technically or tactically, but also from a human perspective, to unite players from across the world. As I work with the team, I treat every player equally, while also addressing their individual needs,” added the manager.

Milos Drincic on Alexandre Coeff

Milos Drincic was asked about how he is looking forward to partnering up with Alexandre Ceoff in the back line. The centre-half enthusiastically said, “Of course, Alex is a good player and a great teammate. He will help the team a lot with his long-standing experience in European football. I am excited to play alongside him and learn from his expertise.”

Ishan Pandita on having a good pre-season

Ishan Pandita when asked if he can continue his form from the pre-season into the league games, answered that he is confident and eager for the season to unfold. The striker added, “The pre-season has gone quite well for the team and for me. The training sessions were intense. We worked hard to learn how to play our tactics, to maintain our shape and hopefully, we can implement everything we have been working on in the league as well.”

On transfer business and squad development

There have been significant outgoings for Kerala Blasters in the summer transfer window. The manager was asked if he had a plan to explore internal solutions within the squad rather than pursuing additional signings. Mikael Stahre responded, “I hold discussions with the sporting director and the management. I believe that they know the market better than me and I completely trust their process. They have been working relentlessly to find solutions. I believe my primary responsibility is to focus on the current squad and find the best way to develop our lads. I am happy with the squad I have got, now that we have completed all the signings.”

The mentor also swiftly dismissed any rumors about KP Rahul being unavailable, saying, ‘You will see him in the yellow shirt, number seven.’

Message to the fans

Mikael Stahre was eager to send a message to the fanbase as he concluded, “We need your support from the very first minute of the season until the end. Football can be challenging at times, but I hope there will also be many good moments. I can promise you that we will give hundred percent every single day.”

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