Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the reigning ISL Shield champions, are gearing up for a dominant 2024-25 season. Armed with a host of new signings and a fresh face in the dugout, the Kolkata club is ready to reclaim its throne. Leading the charge is Jose Molina, a Spanish tactician with a proven track record. He previously guided ATK to their second ISL title in 2016, and his return to Indian football after a successful stint as the sporting director of the Royal Spanish Football Federation is generating plenty of excitement.
With a squad overflowing with talent, Mohun Bagan has the potential to be the league’s most formidable force. Their recent Durand Cup performance, however, served as a reminder that football is not played on paper. Despite holding a 2-0 lead in the final, they ultimately fell to NorthEast United FC on penalties.
The arrival of Australian international Jamie Maclaren promises to add another dimension to the Mariners’ attack. Maclaren, a proven goalscorer in the AFC region, is a significant asset to the team.
Jose Molina’s coaching philosophy is all about possession-based football, creative midfield play, and a balanced approach to both attack and defense. This aligns perfectly with Mohun Bagan’s ambitions. In contrast to his predecessor’s counter-attacking style, Molina’s teams are known for dictating the pace of the game, holding onto possession, and creating scoring opportunities through patient build-up play. His preferred 4-2-3-1 formation offers a platform for creative midfielders to shine, potentially reviving the careers of key Indian players like Sahal Abdul Samad and Anirudh Thapa. The addition of Greg Stewart, a former Mumbai City FC teammate of Lalengmawia Ralte, will provide further control in the middle of the park.
On the attacking front, Molina will have an abundance of firepower at his disposal. Domestic stars like Liston Colaco and Manvir Singh, along with the Australian trio of Dimitrios Petratos, Jason Cummings, and Maclaren, ensure a variety of attacking options. While new signings Tom Aldred and Alberto Rodriguez might need to refine their performances from the Durand Cup, Molina’s adaptable tactics offer him confidence in his defense.
With a ‘super squad’ at his disposal, Molina’s leadership skills will be crucial in integrating the players into a cohesive unit capable of challenging for titles.
Here are some players to watch out for this season:
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Dimitrios Petratos:
The 31-year-old forward has become a fan favorite since arriving in Kolkata in 2022. His ability to score crucial goals and assist from deep midfield makes him a key asset.*
Jamie Maclaren:
One of the most prolific scorers to grace the Indian league in recent years, Maclaren’s clinical finishing will add an extra edge to Mohun Bagan’s attack.While the club has assembled a talented squad, the loss of Anwar Ali, a key defender, remains a concern. Finding a suitable replacement will be a priority for Molina. Additionally, the lack of a natural No. 6 midfielder in the squad might pose a challenge.
Overall, Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s ambitious signings and Jose Molina’s tactical approach make them a strong contender for the ISL title. Their journey promises to be an exciting one, filled with thrilling football and fierce competition.
