FC Pune City appoint Antonio Habas as head coach

Pune: Indian Super League (ISL) franchise FC Pune City made their first big announcement of 2016 season by confirming Antonio Lopez Habas as their head coach.

The 58-year-old, who’s had a successful run in the ISL with Atletico de Kolkata (ATK), will replace Englishman David Platt.

Speaking at the introduction of Habas, Gaurav Modwel, CEO of FC Pune City said, “To be the best, you have to bring the best. Antonio’s track record in the Indian Super League speaks volumes of his capabilities. We are here to give him what he wants so he can give us what we want, i.e. the ISL trophy.”

The Spaniard has a wealth of experience in coaching across Spain, South America and Africa besides spending last two seasons with ISL.

Expressing his joy on joining FC Pune City, Habas said, “The commitment of the (FC Pune City) management for having me as a part of the club and all its planning from the beginning was one of the primary reasons for me to join. This certainly is one of the most professionally managed clubs in the league and changing their fortunes will be a challenge that I am eagerly looking forward to.”

In his two years in league, Habas led the ATK to a championship in 2014 and a final four spot in 2015.

Co-owner Hrithik Roshan was delighted to have Habas on board. “The club is continuing to move forward and Habas’ appointment shows the commitment of the club to achieve success in the new season,” said Hrithik.