I am ready for the ISL, says Odisha FC boss Kiko Ramirez

The Juggernauts have undergone a massive overhaul in the summer after the bottom-place finish last season.

Odisha FC are all set to kick-off their Indian Super League 2021-22 season against Bengaluru FC. Last season was one to forget for the Juggernauts as they finished at the bottom. The team from Bhubaneswar then went through a massive summer overhaul both on and off the pitch as they look to change things in the upcoming campaign. Spaniard Kiko Ramirez is in charge this season. He will want to start off a win and set the marker for the remainder of the season.

On the other hand, this is Bengaluru FC’s second game of the season. They thumped NorthEast United 4-2 in their season opener. Ahead of their game, newly-appointed head coach Kiko Ramirez and Odisha FC captain Hector Rodas spoke to the media. Here's what they said:

[KH_ADWORDS type="4" align="center"][/KH_ADWORDS]

Ready for season

This is Kiko Ramirez’s first stint in the Indian Super League. However, he is confident that both he and his team are ready for the challenge ahead of them

“Of course, this is the first time in the Indian Super League, but I feel that I am ready for the competition. I also feel that the team is ready for the ISL. We had a long pre-season where we can prepare everything for the competition.”

On Bengaluru FC

Despite being his first time in India, the Spaniard is aware of Bengaluru’s reputation and is wary of their threat.

“It’s going to be a tough game. Bengaluru FC won the first game. They have good attackers and are good with the ball and they have a good history in the Indian Super League. We know it’s going to be a hard game, but we are ready.”

He further added, “The team needs to be 100% focused on the game and not make mistakes. We know that they have good-quality attackers. When the match starts, we have to be really focused and do what we have prepared in the week.”

On the new four foreigners rule

Managers have already spoken on their struggles to pick four foreigners in the playing XI from the possible six. Last year five overseas players were allowed in the field. However, this season the Organisers, in accordance with the AFC playing regulations, have limited the number to four foreigners. Asked how he was going to adapt to this system, the 51-year-old stressed on remaining flexible.

“Of course it is a new situation for me. I will try to put four competitive players in the moment to make up a competitive squad. The foreigners will be important, but more important will be the seven Indian players. They are going to play every match. We are also focused on the Indian players, they have to grow during the season.”

[KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News |ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]

Hector Rodas

Accompanying the coach was club captain Hector Rodas. Like his coach, this is Rodas’ first stint in India. Asked about his experience in the country so far, the centre-back replied, “I am really happy here, I have adapted quickly to the situation and the environment. I am really happy by the way the Indian players and all the people in Odisha welcomed me when I arrived. This is my first experience in Asia and also my first experience in the bio-bubble, but I feel happy and well here.”

The 33-year old also spoke about his role at the club as a captain and a senior player. “I want to tell them and show them my values as a football player, not only in training but also in the way I behave outside. I have (played) high-quality football for lot of years in the first division of Spain with different teams. They need the hunger and stay motivated every day to stay at top level.”

For more football updates, follow Khel Now on Twitter, Instagram and join our community on Telegram.