New coach Cuadrat's ambition, taking Bengaluru Football Club to the top

Bengaluru: Newly appointed head coach Carles Cuadrat delivered a strong statement on Thursday afternoon that Bengaluru FC will be looking to pick up right where they left off in the upcoming season of the Indian Super League. The JSW-owned outfit enjoyed a stellar campaign in the 2017/18 season under former coach Albert Roca as they comfortably topped the league phase of the ISL, only to lose out to rivals Chennaiyyin FC in the final. Following Roca’s departure, new head coach Cuadrat – embarking on his first ever senior managerial job – is looking to stamp his authority on the Bengaluru-based club and help the team win as many trophies as possible.

The Spaniard is adamant that despite a host of changes made to the squad, they will be able to emulate and possibly better their phenomenal run from last season. “I’m happy with the squad that we have, we have been working with them over the last two months and discussing different types of tactics and strategies. I am sure that we can perform at a high level”, he said. When asked about the style of football that can be expected of the new manager, Cuadrat responded, “I believe in playing good football. Possession-based football, to put up a good attacking show for our supporters to enjoy”.

Bengaluru FC and India’s star goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu echoed his coach’s words by saying “last season’s success gives me extra motivation to perform well, make lesser errors and hope to contribute as much as I can to the team. I am grateful for the faith the club has put into me and I am eagerly looking forward to the new season”. The goalie had recently signed a contract extension for five years which keeps him at BFC till 2023.

Midfielder Dimas Delgado said that the team is well equipped to deal with the absence of crucial players John Johnson and Subhasish Bose. “I think that all the new boys that have come in will give 100% for the team and fit into the philosophy of the coach. I think we have a very good squad and what’s more important is that they are all willing to learn and help the team win trophies”.

Bengaluru FC kick off their ISL campaign against last year’s champions Chennaiyyin FC on September 30 at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru.