Mohun Bagan Super Giant has announced the appointment of former ATK boss Jose Francisco Molina as their head coach for the forthcoming Indian Super League (ISL) season. The club made the announcement on their social media platforms on Tuesday, bringing in a seasoned manager with a rich background in both playing and coaching.
Jose Molina, who previously served as the Technical Director of the Spanish Football Federation (REEF), will take over from Antonio Lopez Habas. Habas had led the team to their maiden ISL League shield after assuming control midway through the last season.
In his first statement as head coach, Molina expressed his enthusiasm for joining the club: “I am honored to be part of Mohun Bagan Super Giant, a club with a rich legacy. I hope to bring more success to the club and its fans. I would also like to thank Dr. Goenka for giving me this opportunity and giving me the responsibility to take charge as head coach of Mohun Bagan Super Giant.”
Though Molina’s last managerial role was in 2018, his experience in Indian football is well-noted. He previously led ATK FC to their second ISL title in 2016, demonstrating his capability to succeed in the league. His appointment has sparked a wave of anticipation among Mohun Bagan fans, who are eager to see if he can replicate his past successes.
Molina, a former goalkeeper capped nine times by Spain, began his coaching career with Villarreal’s C team in the Tercera Division, the fourth tier of Spanish football. His coaching journey saw him advance to manage Villarreal’s B team and briefly the first team. Molina’s playing career included stints with Villarreal, Atletico Madrid, and Deportivo La Coruna, further enriching his footballing pedigree.
Outside Europe, Molina managed Kitchee in Hong Kong and his last coaching role was with San Luis before moving on to serve as the Technical Director for REEF for five years. His tenure as Technical Director concluded following Spain’s exit from the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where they were eliminated by Morocco in the Round of 16.
Molina’s return to India brings with it a promise of exciting football. His only previous stint in India with ATK was marked by success, as he led the team to an ISL title in his sole season in 2016. ATK triumphed over Kerala Blasters in a penalty shootout in the final, securing their second ISL title in three seasons. This history of success sets a hopeful precedent for his tenure with Mohun Bagan.
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