New Era for Indian Football: Manolo Marquez Ushers in Change
Marquez brings with him a wealth of experience in developing young Indian players. The likes of Liston Colaco, Akash Mishra, Asish Rai, Jay Gupta, Nikhil Poojary and more all blossomed under him in the ISL and went on to feature for the Indian national team. He's already familiar with India's squad - having either managed them or against them, so is intimately aware of their strengths and flaws. The familiarity extends to his dealings with the Indian football environment.
He took a club with meagre resources like Hyderabad FC to the pinnacle of Indian football, and his ability to inspire his sides as an underdog is unmatched. Marquez is equally adept at a backs-to-the-wall style of play and front-foot football, which is perfect for the challenges the Indian football team will face in the coming years.
Manolo Marquez's first task will be to replace the 94-goal sized hole in the Indian squad - Chhetri's departure has left a void, but Marquez has already proved he can adapt to such happenings.