Competitive football returns to Mumbai’s shores after almost six years. In a Maharashtra derby tie, Mumbai City FC and FC Pune City, lock horns in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai on Saturday.
In their first match, Mumbai City FC were hammered 3-0 by Atletico de Kolkata on the opening night of the tournament. But Mumbai’s coach Peter Reid is unperturbed. He reckons that better weather and pitch conditions will help them bounce back.
Talking to Rediff.com’s Laxmi Negi, on the eve of the match against Pune City FC, Reid, the massively experienced manager of Mumbai City FC, promises entertaining, attacking football to fans of the club.
What promises do you hold for Mumbai City FC fans?
As a football, cricket or any other coach it is difficult to promise anything. I just hope we play attacking football as people like to be entertained. We will give the fans entertaining, attacking football. Frankly speaking, I want to win, even if we play badly. I won’t be ecstatic but I will be satisfied.
Are there any changes in the side?
Syed Rahim Nabi is injured, so won’t be available for selection. Also, Fredrik Ljungberg trained with the team today and looks set for the match.
How do you view the weather conditions here in Mumbai?
It is a nice weather to play football, but only as long as you are the manager (laughs). The players will have a different story to tell. But it is pleasant here in Mumbai.
Also, it will be a different ballgame altogether, as the match will be played on grass. No disrespect to Kolkata where we played on artificial turf. We are looking forward to conducive football here.
What have been the areas worked upon after the defeat against Kolkata?
We are expecting a great improvement; we will pass the ball better tomorrow. We are working to make Mumbai City FC a better team.
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