Our mentality is to win the game against Mumbai City, says Juan Ferrando

The FC Goa boss also revealed that he is not thinking about his opponents' squad in the upcoming game.

As FC Goa look to return to the winning ways, after sharing the spoils in their Indian Super League campaign opener against Bengaluru FC, the Gaurs face off against their former boss Sergio Lobera and his Mumbai City FC side. Ahead of the match on Wednesday night, FC Goa head coach Juan Ferrando spoke to the press regarding the match.

"For us, it’s a game for three points. Our mentality is to win the game. Of course, there are some players who were playing here who are now playing for them. There is certain motivation when it comes to playing against your former team. But we are thinking in terms of ourselves, in terms of the three points. That is the most important for us,” the FC Goa head coach began.

Juan Ferrando revealed that Jahouh’s absence would not cause him to change his tactics and style majorly. “90% of my focus is on my team. There might be some important players in the opposition or some details in attack and defence. But 90% of my focus is on my team to improve my players and then decide the best first eleven against Mumbai. I am not thinking about the starting eleven of Mumbai,” he quipped.

Edu Bedia, who had been part of Sergio Lobera's FC Goa side in the past, also feels the same way as his current coach. “The aim for us is  simple. Yes, it is true that ex-teammates would be on the field playing against us. But just like the coach said we need to focus on ourself. Focus on getting the three points and self-improvement. The last game we finished very well. Therefore, we need to carry that momentum and do the best in the game.” he stated.

Over the last few years, FC Goa has had a very comfortable record against Mumbai City FC, games in which Edu Bedia himself was part of. However, the midfielder feels that past victories do not give his side any advantage this season.

“The games we played last season, are not the same as the games we are going to play this season. Ultimately, it is two completely new teams. The coaches have changed, a lot of players have changed. What happened last season wont realy have any influence this season,” he shared.

Juan Ferrando stressed on the fact that the players need to take care of things on their end first, before worrying about the opposition. “The most important for us every game is to be competitive, to be positive and to get three points. Against any team. Of course, tomorrow some details are different. Because the coach and many players have been in Goa before. But our mentality remains the same.”

There have been a string of injuries in the opening games in the Indian Super League. The FC Goa head coach feels that the lack of time for preparation is a huge factor behind the injuries. “It is the same around the world. The players are not machines. They have emotions. It is very important to prepare. Normal pre-season is four-five weeks. But after seven months rest, we need at least double the normal amount of time, maybe 10-12 weeks.“

“Right now, these matches are like the last few days of the pre-season. But there is lot of stress for three points. There are lots of problems with masses and ligaments. This is terrible for both coaches and players. One injury is difficult for the player as he is out for three to four weeks,” Juan Ferrando concluded.

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