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Why influx of Spanish flavour can rekindle old charm of Kolkata Derby

Published at :August 31, 2019 at 10:49 AM
Modified at :August 31, 2019 at 10:49 AM
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Atrayo Bhattacharya


Alejandro Menendez and Kibu Vicuna will square off against each other for the first time this season on Sunday.

Indian football has evolved over the years and the biggest transformation came with the arrival of the Spanish era in the Indian subcontinent. The renaissance which the domestic game saw a few years ago was due to the Spanish influence.

Recently both the Indian Super League and I-League teams have opted to go the Spanish way and most of the them have found success on that route. Starting from the inaugural ISL season, where Antonio Lopez Habas led his ATK side to the title, which was followed by his countryman Jose Molina, who achieved the same feat with the Kolkata-based outfit.

The influence started spreading its wings as Albert Roca had a huge impact in Bengaluru FC's success over the years. His good work was then carried forward by Carles Cudrat, who finally helped the Blues to win the ISL title last season. The I-League also saw the influence of Spanish figures, as Chennai City helped their Singaporean coach Akbar Nawas to clinch the crown. FC Goa also took their fair share of plaudits with Sergio Lobera at the helm, as the Gaurs won the Super Cup last season.

East Bengal appointed former Real Madrid Castilla coach Alejandro Menendez to the helm and it had an immediate impact on the Red and Gold. With back-to-back Kolkata Derby wins, Menendez has fine-tuned his side into a very pragmatic yet dynamic style of play. He has also carried forward his trait of developing youngsters, as players like Manoj Mohammad, Jobby Justin and Samad Ali Mallick have shown massive improvement under his tutelage.

Although, Menendez's East Bengal missed out on the I-League title by a whisker, the Spaniard's style of play has been lauded by most of the supporters. Arch-rivals Mohun Bagan have followed the same route this summer, by appointing Jose Antonio 'Kibu' Vicuna as their head coach and signing a horde of Spanish players. Vicuna is still in his early days in Kolkata, but has already faced the heat of the intensity of the supporters, especially after their loss to Gokulam Kerala in the Durand Cup final a week ago.

There is a contrast between the two Spanish coaches, as Menendez focuses more on transition play, quick counter-attacks and direct football. Whereas Vicuna prefers a slower build-up, where his wingers and full-backs play a vital role in creating the width that is required for this gameplay.

As things stand, Jaime Colado is the nucleus of the Red and Gold, as the 24-year-old is often given a free role in attack. Colado's versatility and ability to adapt to different roles make him a vital prospect for the team in the upcoming Kolkata Derby.

Meanwhile, it is still early days for Joseba Beitia, but the former Real Sociedad 'B' midfielder has already become a fan-favourite among the Mariners. Beitia is also the nucleus of Vicuna's setup, but he plays in a more deeper role than Colado.

The 28-year old midfielder has been the driving force for Bagan this season, with his passing and ball progression skills. His understanding of when to retain and release the ball makes him a real threat in the heart of the midfield. While he orchestrates the build-up, his understanding with Salva Chamorro will also be important for the Mariners.

On the defensive side of things, Kassim Aidara will augment the midfield and screen the Red and Gold's backline. While Marti Crespi will look to lead the rearguard and put up a great show against the arch-rivals. Whereas Mohun Bagan's back four will mostly rely on Francisco Morante and Lalramchullova. As an academy graduate Sk. Sahil will also play a crucial role in defensive midfield.

Menendez has brought a different attitude into the Red and Gold camp, where the youngsters have often made their name in the folklore of Indian football's biggest fixture. The Spaniard will have an advantage over his compatriot as he has already won two derbies and has ample experience in holding his nerve in a crunch fixture.

While the focus will be on the Spanish players and coaches to deliver on the big day, the local players on either side will also have their shot at glory in this fixture. Even in the past, players have earned their claim to fame by performing in this clash.

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Considering the two teams, East Bengal are a more seasoned and balanced side with Menendez coming into this game on the back of two derby wins. Whereas, it is a new setup at Bagan this season and the team is yet to get assimilated to different conditions.

It will be a fascinating contest between the two Spanish tacticians as both teams are far from their best shape. However, it will be a battle of nerves for both sets of players, as the team which will tackle pressure better will come out as winners.

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