ISL 2022-23: We have brought in more maturity and experience in the squad: Odisha FC assistant head coach Jacobo Ramallo

Odisha FC assistant head coach Jacobo Ramallo reckons the club has brought in more maturity and experience in the squad ahead of the ninth edition of the Hero Indian Super League. Odisha FC have been one of the busiest clubs of the off-season and they have added a lot of quality players in their squad, which can help them go all the way in the tournament.

Odisha FC have roped in foreign players like Carlos Delgado, Osama Malik, Saul Crespo, Diego Mauricio, Pedro Martin, and Victor Rodriguez. Furthermore, they have brought Indian players like Raynier Fernandes, Narender Gahlot. Thus, they have good quality players ahead of the upcoming edition.

On the other hand, Odisha FC finished at seventh position in Hero ISL 2021-22 standings with six wins and a total of 23 points in their 20 league stage matches. Ergo, they failed to qualify for the semifinal stages and they will be determined to turn the tables in the forthcoming season.

Speaking about the new signings, assistant head coach Jacobo Ramallo said while talking to Odisha FC, “About the ones that we know well during our first stint here, they are obviously much better players today. After three years, every player is a better player, and players like Nanda [Nandakumar Sekar], Jerry [Mawihmingthanga] are of course better today than they were before. Even the young ones, when I see Zauva [Paul Ramfangzauva], or Sawhney [Deven], I remember them three years ago as proper kids and right now they are built, look strong. So, of course, everyone is better.”

He added, “Coming to signings, I prefer not to say names but I’m sure we have brought more maturity and experience, and for me, that’s a massive difference. For instance, right now we have players that have already played for the national team, we have players who have already gone and won trophies. And it’s not just maturity or experience or the number in the squad, it’s because of the quality of the players we are bringing at the club.”

The 37-year-old Spaniard added that the squad has evolve during the off-season and he expects a better performance from the players.

He added, “I’d prefer to call it evolution. I know there have been many changes in the squad, the structure of the club, but I prefer to call it evolution because then I’m aware that some of the foundations that were built at that stage are still here.”

Giving his message to the club’s fans, he said, “Everything is easy when the fans are behind us. When you’re into the game, there are people supporting you, rooting for you, and then you notice the stands, it’s just one of the most beautiful moments in professional football.”