How ATK Mohun Bagan could line up in ISL 2022-23

The Mariners have made five prominent signings to further strengthen their squad.

ATK Mohun Bagan head into the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) season with one goal in mind - win everything. The Mariners have come agonizingly close to winning both the league and playoffs over the last few seasons. But they’ve always fumbled at the last hurdle.

In his first full season in charge, Juan Ferrando will look to ensure that doesn’t happen again. After having made some blockbuster summer signings, ATKMB boasts one of the strongest squads in the ISL. They almost have solid options in every single area of the pitch.

With so many options, comes a dilemma about which players to start and whom to bench. Ferrando will probably rotate his players to maintain peak fitness levels and avoid injuries. He will also need his strongest XI for major fixtures. Here we look at how the Mariners can line up in the upcoming ISL.

Goalkeeper: Arsh Anwer

There is much speculation about the future of the goalkeeping position at ATK Mohun Bagan. Amrinder Singh had an underwhelming debut season last time and wasn’t able to impress Ferrando per expectations. That’s why in the AFC Cup group stages, young goalkeeper Arsh Anwer was played over Singh. He’s also expected to start in the ISL with them.

The Mariners have also signed Vishal Kaith, but Anwer seems to have won over Ferrando. The youngster’s impressive distribution ability, work with his feet and shot-stopping ability could help him enjoy a stellar season in the ISL next time.

Right back: Asish Rai

The Mariners wanted to upgrade their right-back position after sensing trouble last season. They did so by signing India international Asish Rai from Hyderabad FC. The 23-year-old was part of the Nizams’ success in the ISL as they won the title last season. He got three assists in 16 appearances.

Defensively, Rai was proactive and sturdy. Rai is expected to be ATKMB’s stalwart right-back and will aim to prove more attacking threat with his crosses and attacking runs.

Centre back: Pritam Kotal

After signing a contract extension earlier this summer, Pritam Kotal is set to have a prominent role at ATK Mohun Bagan. The 28-year-old is among the senior figures in the team and seems to have earned Ferrando’s trust. He should operate in that centre-back role again, thanks to his game-reading ability and tendency to make clutch challenges. As long as Kotal can cut the occasional errors in his performances, he should be a regular in the ATKMB team this season.

Centre back: Florentin Pogba

Reportedly being paid a yearly salary of Rs 2.5 crore, Florentin Pogba is expected to be a key part of Ferrando’s side. The physically dominant centre-back will be a regular in the team as long as he can keep himself fit.

Despite Brendan Hamill being registered instead of him for the Durand Cup, Pogba should play prominently in the ISL. His passing ability, aerial prowess and technical quality should be a perfect fit for Ferrando’s system. In addition to that, Pogba’s defensive prowess should be enough to bully strikers.

Left back: Ashique Kuruniyan

Ashique Kuruniyan was ATKMB’s marquee domestic signing for the summer transfer window. He decided to leave Bengaluru FC for a new journey and can have an interesting role for the Mariners. Because of the permanent options in the attacking areas, Kuruniyan might have to play as a left back.

But Kuruniyan will probably be given license to roam forward, run at defenders and create major chances. He could, of course, also play in either wing or as a second striker if needed, but should mostly operate in that left-back region.

Centre midfield: Carl McHugh

In ATK Mohun Bagan’s system, for the wing-backs to play high up, they need a defensive midfielder to protect their backline. Carl McHugh fulfills that role rather well, knowing perfectly how to shield his defence. He can sit back and operate as a makeshift centre-back when too many bodies venture forward.

The Irishman can play as a deep-lying playmaker, building moves with some excelling long-balls. His aggressiveness, timely tackles and hard-working attitude make him an important player for the Mariners.

Centre midfield: Deepak Tangri

Deepak Tangri featured heavily under Ferrando last season and should continue in the same vein. The young midfielder packs a punch with his aggressive challenges and ruffles several feathers. He can also press opposition players swiftly, reducing the creation of chances. Tangri’s high energy levels and snappy passing ability make him an asset for ATKMB. He is another player who can cover for an attacker with ease if needed.

Right wing: Manvir Singh

Manvir Singh might have his occasional frustrating moments, but he remains a trusted individual at the club. The forward’s versatility along with his tendency to run the extra mile make him a crucial player. The 26-year-old will hope to get more goal contributions going forward for his side. If Singh can glisten up his finishing ability, he can be a tormenting figure against any side.

Attacking midfield: Joni Kauko

Joni Kauko has been one of ATKMB’s best performers in recent seasons despite having to play multiple roles. He can thrive as a central-midfielder, winning back possession and creating from deep, but his best comes out in an advanced role. The Finnish player's bullish style can inspire those around him. He creates chances with his ability to carve open defences, but is also efficient in finishing things off well. Kauko will have to be at his best for the Mariners to soar this season and should be a key player for Ferrando’s side.

Left wing: Liston Colaco

Liston Colaco was arguably ATK Mohun Bagan’s best player last season. He scored eight goals and provided four assists in 22 appearances, tormenting teams with his unpredictable style. Colaco’s dribbling ability, pace and sweet technique make him a joy to watch. He is guaranteed to be a key player for the Mariners this season and has to improve upon his work rate from last season to help them win the title.

Striker: Hugo Boumous

We all know Hugo Boumous isn’t a centre-forward, but he can operate as the most advanced player if needed. Boumous loves playing high up the pitch and can get the freedom to do so this season. His ability to glide past defenders and finish off moves in style can outwit the best of ISL defenses. Boumous can even drop deep and allow the likes of Liston Colaco and Manvir Singh get into more scoring areas from this position, uplifting ATKMB’s attacking prowess. He can switch positions with multiple teammates and bring more flexibility to the attack, hence increasing the team’s chances of winning.

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