The tenure of Juan Ferrando as the head coach of Mohun Bagan Super Giant has come to an official end, marking a significant development in Indian football. The decision comes nine months after Ferrando led the team to victory in the Indian Super League (ISL) and four months post the Durand Cup triumph.
Poor Results Culminate in Sacking
Ferrando’s position became increasingly untenable due to a series of poor results in recent times. The team management made the decision to part ways with the 43-year-old Spaniard following a brief and quick meeting on Wednesday. The club expressed gratitude for the ISL Cup win, the Durand Cup win, and the countless memories created under Ferrando’s leadership.
In a swift move, Mohun Bagan Super Giant has brought back former coach Antonio Lopez Habas to the dug-out as the senior team’s head coach. Habas, serving as the team’s technical director, is set to take charge of the team in the upcoming Kalinga Super Cup in Bhubaneswar. This marks Habas’s fourth stint with the Kolkata side, having previously managed both ATK and ATK Mohun Bagan in the ISL.
The club acknowledged Habas’s return with a succinct post on social media, welcoming back “Señor Habas.” The Spanish coach is expected to lead the team in their upcoming fixtures, and fans are eager to witness his impact on the squad.
Ferrando’s Previous Success and Downfall
Ferrando was appointed as Mohun Bagan’s coach in a surprising transfer coup from FC Goa in December 2021. He enjoyed success in his first season, guiding the team to the ISL championship and earning a contract extension until the end of the 2023-2024 season. However, the team faced challenges in the current season, with key players sidelined due to injuries, resulting in a decline in performance.
Despite the possibility of Ferrando being given another chance, the management, led by Sasnjiv Goenka, opted to terminate his contract. The team is currently facing challenges with six players participating in the Asian Cup and key players like Anwar Singh and Ashique Kuruniyan still recovering from injuries.
Antonio Habas faces a massive challenge as he takes charge of the team amid ongoing tournaments. Mohun Bagan Super Giant has resumed training in the new year and is gearing up for the Super Cup campaign starting on January 9 in Bhubaneswar.
