HT Kick Off: Jose Molina - The Architect of the "Football Machine"
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He began his last media conference of the season for the Indian Super League (ISL) by saying, "Good night." Upon realizing he had greeted the room in the traditional Iberian manner, Jose Molina remarked, "Oh, good night here is after." His comment elicited laughter from both him and the assembled press corps.
“Keep calm”
Even Following his assistance in leading Mohun Bagan Super Giant to their inaugural ISL double, Molina maintained his characteristic composure. In the wake of Bengaluru FC's relentless offensive during halftime, he remained the embodiment of tranquility. He remarked that the approach was consistent as always: “Stay calm, have faith in yourself, and enjoy the game.”
This demeanor was evident throughout the early challenges and successes that ensued. Prior to the match against Mohammedan Sporting, after a shaky beginning that included a loss in the Durand Cup, Molina was questioned about the security of his position. He acknowledged that such matters were beyond his control but expressed his unwavering belief in both his players and himself. This quiet confidence has been a hallmark of his tenure in India during the 2024-25 season.
And, For those who recall his tenure as the head coach of ATK in 2016, Molina made significant changes to nearly the entire starting eleven during the second leg of the semi-final, yet successfully guided ATK to maintain their one-goal advantage against Mumbai City FC. Steve Coppell expressed nothing but admiration when our discussion turned to this topic in anticipation of the 2017-18 season.
By that time, Molina had departed, likely due to the deterioration of the relationship between ATK and Atletico Madrid. In contrast, Mohun Bagan chose not to retain Antonio Lopez Habas after he secured the league shield in the 2023-24 season, while Molina is expected to remain with the team.
No discord in change room
It is fitting that Molina expressed his intention to become the first coach to successfully defend the ISL cup and/or shield, as previously mentioned in the last issue, while also elevating Mohun Bagan's status beyond the domestic arena. Although Punjab FC triumphed over them with a 2-0 victory in the final of the Dream Sports Championship's under-17 competition, Mohun Bagan has consistently excelled throughout the season, from youth to senior levels. Their objective for the 2025-26 season will be to remain competitive in the Asian Champions League 2.
This ambition aligns with the aspirations of Sanjiv Goenka, who has sought such goals since the merger in 2020. Indian football clubs have seldom demonstrated this level of ambition.
Just a day after referring to them as a football machine, Bengaluru FC coach Gerard Zaragoza remarked that Mohun Bagan could assemble two competitive teams. The depth of talent within Mohun Bagan’s squad is undeniable. However, this abundance can also lead to discontent within the locker room, reminiscent of the situation with Armando Sadiku, who parted ways with FC Goa following a controversial celebration. There was also a public disagreement between Cleiton Silva and Oscar Bruzon, but such issues were avoided under Molina's leadership, as he has consistently acknowledged the contributions of his staff.
Molina stated, "The players, some of whom have participated in World Cup finals, believed in us." He also publicly supported his players, defending Vishal Kaith after a subpar performance for India. Although Liston Colaco and Anirudh Thapa struggled to make an impact in the final, Molina praised their efforts, explaining their substitutions were due to fatigue. His influence was evident in the promotion of Suhail Bhatt to the first team and Dippendu Biswas's 14 appearances this season.
Bengaluru FC struggled to convert their possession into effective play in the attacking third. Mohun Bagan, remaining compact and patient, recognized that opportunities would arise; they always do.
Molina noted that Mohun Bagan was aware of Bengaluru's likely midfield dominance, given their players' affinity for the ball. However, Mohun Bagan possesses a formidable attack, a robust defense, and a bench capable of securing victories, as evidenced by their impressive goal difference of +31 following the league phase.
By introducing Sahal Abdul Samad, Ashique Kuruniyan, and Greg Stewart, Molina enabled Mohun Bagan to seize control of the match. Following Jamie Maclaren’s goal, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu rallied his teammates, but Bengaluru FC lacked the stamina to respond effectively. There would be no further surprises on Saturday.
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