We are confident of retaining ISL title, Indian players training well: ATK Head Coach Antonio Habas
With just a week or so to go, Atletico de Kolkata (ATK) head coach Antonio Habas is confident of his side retaining the Indian Super League (ISL) title, after what he describes as a successful pre-season tour. The defending Champions trained in Spain, with the entire squad at his disposal and is quite impressed with the new Indian players he is currently working with.
During a Press conference in Kolkata, Habas said, “The team feels very good about itself after pre-season and is ready to fight for the latest edition of ISL. The training at Segovia has helped the boys stay in shape and also bond with each other so that they can communicate well during the matches. We also worked on the technical aspect of the players to understand, how we can push them to their potential.”
The 58-year old coach, who guided ATK to success last season was quick to point out how different this team is from last year’s Champions. He stated, “We can’t essentially compare both sides, they are different in nature. We have formulated a plan, which you will see over time.”
When asked about the Indian players, he said, “All of them have shown the right frame of mind, I wouldn’t like to point out one single player, but they have all done well as a collective unit. You will soon figure out the standout performers.”
Atletico will play at the Mohun Bagan stadium while the Salt Lake undergoes renovation
Meanwhile, ATK co-owner Sanjiv Goenka was quick to point out that, the recurring practice ground problem has been solved. He said, “The team will be practicing at the Mohun Bagan ground till the 8th and from then on at the Salt Lake stadium after its maintenance completion.”
“Tickets will also go on sale very soon, they are priced at Rs 200, 250, 400, 1250 and 5000. We request the Kolkata fans to cheer for us like they did last year,” he added
“Pele will be here in Kolkata over the course of two days and will participate in various activities that will help boost football in Kolkata. We are looking forward to hosting him.”
Pele himself added in a video message, “Hello I am very happy to attend the Atletico de Kolkata first home match. I look forward to visit the Salt Lake stadium to meet the players and the fans. Fatafati football!”
ATK play their first home match on the October 13, against Kerala Blasters, which will be a repeat of last year’s final.