ISL 2021-22: I think the league should continue – ATK Mohun Bagan head coach Juan Ferrando

ATK Mohun Bagan head coach Juan Ferrando believes the Hero Indian Super League should draw inspiration from other Football leagues across the globe and the tournament must go on despite the trouble caused by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Before the 64th match of the tournament, three matches were postponed after teams were unable to field their team due to the virus.

Thus, the league has come under the scanner with a rising number of cases. On the other hand, it is well known that leagues like the African Cup of Nations, Premier League, FA Cup, the Champions League, [Ligue 1] in France, [Bundesliga] in Germany are being played despite being troubled by the pandemic.

Juan Ferrando said in the pre-match press conference, “I think the league should continue. You have examples in the African Cup of Nations, Premier League, FA Cup, the Champions League, [Ligue 1] in France, [Bundesliga] in Germany, they’re continuing with their [respective] leagues. At this moment, it’s necessary to know that, okay, it’s difficult for everybody around the world. But if we want to fight against this virus, the most important thing is being strong and continuing normal life. In my point of view, it is now normal life, of course, there are some details. It’s difficult to be close with your friends, with your family. Maybe it’s necessary to take an example around the world and continue the normal life”

Meanwhile, the Spaniard admitted that it’s going to be difficult for him to pick the team’s starting XI as the players haven’t been able to train amid the virus and they have been locked up in isolation.

Ferrando added, “It’s difficult, of course, because at this moment it’s necessary to think of a plan, to prepare a plan in two days, but I’m not so worried because as I’ve said earlier, I have an incredibly good squad. Our players are professionals just like the other teams. In the end, we are ready because we can and we want to do our job, which is to play football”.

However, at the same time, all the players are available for selection for the team’s match against Kerala Blasters. ATK Mohun Bagan’s last game against Bengaluru FC was postponed.

Ferrando concluded, “To be honest, I’m happy because all the players are ready. Of course, at this moment, it’s necessary to take control because there are a lot of games [to be played]. We haven’t practiced and it’s necessary to keep calm and monitor the health of the players. Yesterday and today, we had two training sessions and we’ll see the condition of the players”.