Carlos Pena updates on Brandon Fernandes' injury ahead of ISL bow

The Spaniard is expecting an exciting clash on Wednesday.

FC Goa will start the ISL 2022-23 season by taking on East Bengal at the Salt Lake Stadium in front of a huge number of East Bengal fans. Carlos Pena having played for FC Goa before knows about the league and will look to start the season on a good note. The Gaurs had a poor season last year as they finished ninth in the league. This year Pena will be aiming to resurrect the squad and bring them back to the place they deserve.

On the pre-season camp

FC Goa played the Durand Cup with their reserve squad with only a few senior players like Muhammed Nemil and Hrithik Tiwari taking part. Carlos Pena is excited to start the season fresh on a positive note. 

“We are really excited to start the season with the first game being always special and will look to start on a positive note,” he commented.

Playing against East Bengal

East Bengal lost their first match this season and will look to come back strong in front of their home fans against FC Goa.

Carlos Pena claimed, “It will be a tough match with East Bengal having lost their first match against Kerala Blasters. Also, they play aggressive football and will have the home support to their advantage.”

On injury concerns

Carlos Pena has informed there are no injury concerns and all the players are fit and ready to play the ISL.

“There are no injury concerns and everyone is available to play the first game,” said the tactician in the press conference.

Brandon Fernandes' availability

Brandon is an integral part of the midfield and has been with the club for many years. He is fit to play the first game having had injury concerns in the previous season.

“Brandon is fully fit to play the first game and I am very happy with his training,” pointed out Pena.

On playing the away game at the Salt Lake Stadium

FC Goa will be playing for the first time in front of a packed stadium after two seasons. Carlos Pena thinks it will be a challenge to play in front of East Bengal fans.

“It is amazing as well as challenging to play in front of the full house against East Bengal. It will be a very special match and we are going to enjoy the game till the end,” asserted the mentor.

Thoughts on the defence and attack

The FC Goa head coach also commented on the importance of balance in the squad. He also pointed out the difference that a good defensive third creates.

He said, “Football is about balance. You need to defend and attack well to win. I can tell you that FC Goa is a brave team going into every match and the defence is very important to win matches."

Iker Guarrotxena’s objectives

The 29-year-old will be playing for the first time in Asia and has played in many European leagues before. He will play a crucial role in the side and his versatility will help Pena in the longer run. He pointed out his seasonal goals ahead of the East Bengal game.

“I have come here to win the trophy as I said before and everything starts from the first game tomorrow. Presently I am looking forward to winning the first game and playing one game at a time rather than thinking about the overall season.” 

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