Very excited for the season, says SC East Bengal boss Manolo Diaz

The Spaniard spoke about the his squad and the new campaign ahead of his debut in the Indian Super League.

SC East Bengal head coach Manolo Diaz has a big task cut out for him, after the Red and Gold Brigade were left in a hapless position following their dismal Indian Super League (ISL) 2020-21 campaign. He faces his first test in the league this season, against Jamshedpur FC on Sunday, November 21.

Ahead of the clash, Diaz and the club's assistant coach Angel Garcia spoke to the press during the pre-match press conference.

Turning over a new leaf at the club

The first question directed towards the coaches was straightforward to say the least. They were asked about their hopes of turning things around for the club.

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“This season, it is a new team, new players, and a new coach. We are confident of improving the level as compared to last season," Manolo Diaz responded.

Taking one game at a time

SC East Bengal do not have to wait for long to play against their arch-rivals ATK Mohun Bagan. In fact, their second game of this season is against the Mariners. Their city rival started their campaign on a high by clinching all three points in their first match of the season on Friday. They dominated over Kerala Blasters, especially in the first half.

Diaz made it clear that he is not thinking ahead yet, and that he is planning his tactics for opening game only as of now. “Our focus is the first match, not the derby. For us, the first match is important for gaining confidence. The history between the clubs is obviously there and we are ready to play the second match against ATKMB," he said.

On his team’s brand of football

When asked about Diaz’s style of playing, the Spanish tactician revealed that they have had around 35 sessions in training now and that this has enabled them to have a deeper look at the players and what they can offer.

“We can play in different ways with the squad we have and we can look for different solutions in every match,” he added.

Importance of foreign players

During the transfer window, the club added a brand new foreign contingent to their ranks. It carries a nice balance of players who can defend and those who can get their names on the score sheet. When asked about his expectations from his foreign players, Diaz said, “They must make the difference but it is difficult for them as only four can play according to the Indian Super League (ISL) rules.”

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Questions were raised regarding Nigerian striker Daniel Chima. The forward has immense experience, especially in the Norwegian league where he won the championship three times. The head coach acknowledged that SC East Bengal have a great player at their disposal in Chima and said, “We know about Chima’s skill set. He can help us with scoring goals and assisting his teammates. He is a part of the team and his level will improve only if the team works together.”

Approach against Coyle’s men

The duo did not give away much when asked about their plan of action against Jamshedpur FC. “We respect the way they played last season as many players are continuing with them. We know what we have to do and we will give our best,” Manolo Diaz reiterated.

On his successful compatriots

The Indian Super League has so far seen six coaches taking their team all the way to the championship. The list includes four Spaniards in Antonio Habas, Jose Molina, Carles Cuadrat, and Sergio Lobera. On this subject, Diaz was asked whether he felt any pressure and if he was ready to take up the challenge.

“We don’t have any excuses. Some Spanish coaches know their competition in the ISL but we are ready to play,” he concluded.

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