I-League 2016/17: 5 ideal replacements to coach East Bengal on a long-term basis
East Bengal have appointed Santosh Trophy winning coach Mridul Banerjee as their interim manager till the Federation Cup in May. Reports had emerged that Armando Colaco was being considered for the post after Trevor Morgan’s resignation following a defeat to DSK Shivajians. But Banerjee has been roped in to take care of the club during these turbulent times.
As the 10th I-League nears its business end, the script seems too familiar for the East Bengal loyalists. A promising start, a mid-tournament slop and an unceremonious end - this season has been reminiscent of the past failures of the Red and Golds.
At this juncture, let us take a look at 5 candidates who would be ideal to head the club on a long-term basis.
#5 Khalid Jamil
The Kuwait-born Indian coach has scaled new heights this season as the coach of Aizawl FC, leading them to a championship battle with Mohun Bagan. From a side who barely managed to stave off relegation last season, the north-east club have forged a unit capable of grounding big names.
The contribution of the former Mumbai FC coach in this incredible journey has been immense. From installing the correct team spirit to landing the perfect bunch of foreigners, Jamil has shaped the squad significantly to pose a stiff challenge for the trophy.
His management prowess has made him the ideal candidate to revive the sinking ship of East Bengal. However, having just joined the Mizoram side, it is highly unlikely that the 39-year old will switch allegiance so soon.