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"Manolo Marquez: India's New Football Coach Ushers Change"

Manolo Marquez has been appointed as the new head coach of the Indian national men's football team by the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) executive committee.

Appointment and Dual Role

Manolo Marquez appointed as the new head coach of the Indian national men's football team.
Decision made by the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) executive committee on July 20, 2024.
Marquez will continue as FC Goa's coach in the Indian Super League (ISL) for the 2024-25 season.
After the 2024-25 ISL season, he will take up the Indian national team role full-time.
Dual role arrangement agreed upon by AIFF and FC Goa due to financial considerations.
Marquez will coach FC Goa during club season and handle national duties during FIFA windows and off-season.

Marquez's Background and Qualifications

Spanish coach with extensive experience in Indian football.
Previously coached Hyderabad FC for three seasons, leading them to their first ISL championship in 2022.
Led FC Goa to a third-place finish in the ISL last season.
Known for developing young Indian players who have gone on to represent the national team.
Prior experience includes coaching Las Palmas in La Liga and stints in Thailand and Croatia.
First international team coaching job, but brings valuable experience with Indian players and football ecosystem.

Reasons for Selection and Expectations

Familiarity with young Indian players and respect from them.
Ability to improve overlooked players and develop talent.
Experience working with Indian players daily in the ISL.
Consensus that India needs a coach to take existing players to the next level.
Expected to fill the void left by Sunil Chhetri's eventual departure from the national team.
Known for adaptability in coaching style and willingness to drop underperforming big names.

Challenges and Potential Issues

Juggling responsibilities between FC Goa and the national team.
Potential conflict of interest in player selection and prioritization.
Need to unite the dressing room after Igor Stimac's controversial departure.
Addressing disappointment from recent poor results of the national team.
Limited time to view other matches in person due to club commitments.
Dealing with potential inefficiencies in AIFF operations, as alleged by the previous coach.

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