The priority should be to fight for the badge, says Kerala Blasters coach Mikael Stahre ahead their ISL opener

The Swedish manager insists on complete dedication from the players.

Kerala Blasters are well set to commence their 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) season under the guidance of their new manager Mikael Stahre. The Swedish tactician has met with the press at the pre-match press conference ahead of their opening game against Punjab FC. The Indian international and Blaster’s defender Pritam Kotal joined him in the process at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kaloor, Kochi.

Here are the major takeaways from the press conference.

Preparations for the new season.

Mikael Stahre was asked how content he is with the squad and the preparation for the league. Mikael Stahre replied, “We had a good pre-season in Thailand and Kolkata. Unfortunately, we couldn’t achieve the target of winning the Durand Cup. Despite that, we gained some important insights during the tournament. As I speak, we have a great environment at the club. We have been training well, and all the core players are available. We’ve had some injury concerns for a while, but at the moment, we have what we need.”

Kerala Blasters and Punjab FC are beginning a new era under their new managers. With both the teams having previously met in a Durand Cup fixture which ended in a stalemate, the manager was asked how different the contest will be in the league.

“I understand that there are no easy games in the ISL. Last season, this fixture ended terribly for us. We went into the Durand Cup game against them just a few days after the first fixture, without proper recovery. We improved in the second half and managed to score a goal.

“I believe we controlled that game quite well, although I agree we can perform better. I think they have an experienced coach and are well-prepared, but all competitive teams have good coaches. We need to stay humble, but at the same time, we strongly believe in our path and process. It will certainly be a hard game, but hopefully, we will beat them.”

Regarding the formation he plans to set up for the team

Stahre was asked about the tactical setup he has developed for the team going into the season. The tactician replied, “I often use various systems, including 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, 4-4-2, 3-4-3 and 3-5-2. I am an adaptable and flexible coach when it comes to formations. I begin with a certain formation and set principles, but the pre-season helped me to find a lot of tactical tweaks to work on. I will certainly focus on the small changes we have to make going into the league.”

First appearance at home

The Blasters’ head coach when asked about playing at home on Sunday said, “My experience in India so far has been with the club during the Durand Cup. I fully understand that pre-season is one thing and the league is another. Coming to our home, I noticed there are more people at the press conference than in the stands in Kolkata, and that’s the reality.

“It’s going to be a completely different ball game, and we’ll need to play with energy. I also understand that our opponents will put up a tough fight. I expect they’ll probably sit back a little and wait for counter-attacks rather than playing direct.”

Pritam Kotal set to bounce back from last season

Pritam Kotal about the weaknesses in defense last season, and his takes on this season; “As the coach mentioned, we’ve been working hard as a defensive unit for the past two months. While the backline hasn’t changed much, the approach has, and we’re all working together. I’m taking it one game at a time, with the target for the next game being a clean sheet and three points.”

The centre-back also responded to criticism regarding his performance not being up to the mark last season, “It is a part of my career as a professional player. I will focus on myself, work hard, and rectify my mistakes. I started many games at the beginning of the season but was benched for most of the second half. With the new season starting, I will focus on improving myself, leading the team, and winning games.”

Message to the team.

Mikael Stahre stated as a message to the players, “I want them to give their hundred percent on the pitch. Football is a complex game, but the primary importance lies in hard work and energy.

“Quality and tactical awareness only come second. Our number one priority should be to work hard and fight for the badge.”

Message to the fans before the game.

Mikael Stahre’s message to the fans who are eagerly waiting to watch the Blasters. “Firstly, it is a great privilege to be a member of this club.

“I understand that football fans are often critical, have high expectations, and enjoy positive football, but they also want to see a team with determination and fight on the pitch. The best-case scenario for all of us would be to play good football and score many goals. However, I guarantee that you will at least see us giving our best in every single game.”

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