Manolo Marquez appointed Indian men's football team head coach

In a press release, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) stated that Marquez will also remain head coach of FC Goa for the whole of next season as well. 

"During the 2024-25 season, Mr. Marquez will continue his role as the head coach of first team at FC Goa, handling both responsibilities concurrently before assuming the national coaching role on a full-time basis," the release stated. 

Who is Manolo Marquez?

From Barcelona, Spain, Marquez has a stellar record of coaching in India. In his first stint, he transformed underdogs Hyderabad FC into ISL champions before he took over at Goa. 

Last season, Goa finished third in the league and reached the semifinals of the playoffs. 

What are the positives of this move?

Marquez's coaching acumen, and ability to get the best out of Indian youngsters, is unquestionable. 

The best man for the job

Let's leave aside the complexities of the role Marquez has chosen to undertake for now. The fact is that he is the best man for the job. 

What to expect?

In these very pages, Marquez had been dubbed as a 'pure fantasy' choice, given his role with FC Goa, but AIFF have made that a reality. 

“Manolo Marquez will continue to lead the charge for our club.” said FC Goa’s CEO Ravi Puskar told FC Goa’s media team. 

The Spaniard will be the in charge of the ISL Cup playoffs all in his first season of the Club will serve in the dual role till the end of the 2024-25 season before taking charge of the national team on a full-time basis.