Three changes Manolo Marquez must make in upcoming friendly against Malaysia

Manolo Marquez needs to freshen things up as the Blue Tigers search for their first win.

The Indian national football team under head coach Manolo Marquez played out a 1-1 draw against Vietnam in their last international friendly. Farukh Choudhary’s equalizer in the 53rd minute saved India from defeat, with veteran goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu delivering a series of outstanding saves to keep India in the game.

While it was a spirited performance by the Blue Tigers, the Spaniard head coach would have left the game wondering about changes he could have used in retrospect.

Despite the positive result, the match exposed some tactical and personnel shortcomings. Here are three changes the 56-year-old should consider as India still search for their first win in 2024.

Introduce fresh faces into the national squad

The match against Vietnam underscored the importance of a fresh injection of youth and vigor into the team. Minute-by-minute of the Vietnam game, India struggled to maintain a consistent level of pace and intensity. Having tireless energy could be an X-factor that by inculcating young, energetic players could help Marquez get off the blocks quickly in games.

Two players who have caught the eye this season have been Nihal Sudeesh and Nikhil Prabhu. Both players are touted as the rising talents in Indian football and could offer the spark needed to reinvigorate the team.

The Punjab FC duo are well known for being the bright sparks in the squad and have performed for the Shers when it mattered.

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While Nihal is known for his speed and creative playmaking and could provide an edge in midfield, Nikhil is recognized as a strong and versatile defender, who could bring fresh defensive solidity and flexibility to the backline, even step into the midfield if Marquez requires.

Introducing untested players will be a gamble for the Spaniard who is known for his cautious approach but the flip side will be unpredictability and excitement on the pitch against opponents.

Selection criteria should include selection on player’s form and versatility

The team’s performance against Vietnam showcased a need to bring in players who are currently excelling in the Indian Super League (ISL).

National team selection procedures should be based on their current form and match fitness from the ongoing season. While Marquez’s overreliance on established names is a known fact, the importance of including in-form talents cannot be overstated.

For instance, players like Parthib Gogoi, who contributed with two goals and two assists for NorthEast United FC should receive much-deserved international call-ups. Even fellow club teammate Jithin MS could be a viable option for Marquez for upcoming friendlies.

Both players have been consistent for a NorthEast United side, who have put on high-quality performances in the ISL this season. Starting such players could increase India’s offensive potency and allow Marquez to field a more balanced and effective lineup which can put good pressure on the ball.

Is it time for Manolo Marquez to experiment with a new formation?

The 4-2-3-1 formation has been a hallmark of Marquez’s coaching philosophy and emphasizes the importance he gives to structure and defensive solidity. The match against Vietnam revealed the limitations of his system against well-organized and physically stronger teams.

Switching to a 3-5-2 or 5-3-2 formation could provide greater flexibility, allowing India to delve deep into the talented defender pool, Marquez has at its disposal. A 3-5-2 formation would allow the inclusion of wing-backs, offering both defensive cover and width in attack.

It could be a more comfortable setup for Marquez, who could give more freedom to attacking full-backs like Aakash Sangwan, and Naorem Roshan Singh to exploit space on the flanks. Additionally, the incorporation of two strikers upfront will help increase India’s scoring chances by providing better support for the lone forward.

Adopting a 5-3-2 formation could also provide defensive stability, especially against strong opponents. Having extra defenders in the backline would allow Marquez’s team to absorb pressure effectively and counterattack with pace, utilizing the pace of young players like Nihal Sudeesh when needed.

Will Marquez make these necessary changes?

While India’s spirited performance against Vietnam was encouraging, it raised eyes on some key areas in need of improvement.

Drafting talented young players, selecting in-form ISL players, and experimenting with a more flexible formation should be an option the Spaniard needs to be open to adopting. However, only time will tell if Manolo Marquez can usher in some or any of these changes to claim his first victory as head coach.

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