Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: FC Goa has officially announced that Spanish tactician Manolo Márquez will continue as Head Coach for the 2025-26 season, extending his successful tenure into a third consecutive year. This extension marks a strong endorsement of Márquez’s leadership and the club’s focus on continuity, ambition, and growth.
“I’m very satisfied to continue with FC Goa,” said Márquez. “The previous two seasons were fulfilling, both professionally and personally. The club operates at a level of organisation that is rare in Indian football. It was always clear to me—if I were to stay in India, it had to be with FC Goa.”
Márquez, who originally joined the Gaurs in 2023 on a two-year deal, has already become the longest-serving head coach in the club’s history, having led the team in 62 matches across all competitions. Under his guidance, the Gaurs reached back-to-back Indian Super League (ISL) semi-finals and clinched the Kalinga Super Cup, earning a spot in the AFC Champions League 2 preliminary stage. His next assignment will see FC Goa take on Oman’s Al-Seeb Club at Fatorda Stadium on August 13.
FC Goa CEO Ravi Puskur hailed the decision to retain Márquez as a “straightforward one.”
“Manolo has delivered results with a strong sense of identity, consistently improving the team while staying true to the club’s values,” Puskur said. “His ability to develop players, foster unity, and instil a winning mindset makes him the ideal leader for our future.”
With four consecutive playoff appearances in top-tier Indian football — including his time with Hyderabad FC — Márquez’s coaching résumé continues to grow. He has been instrumental in identifying and developing young Indian talents, many of whom have become integral to the national football scene.
Despite facing the departure of key players ahead of the new season, Márquez remains optimistic. “Nearly 20 players from last season are continuing with us, which is rare in modern football. The new additions will need to adapt quickly, but we are focused on preserving the core that brought us success.”
Márquez is also adjusting to an unusual pre-season, with the AFC fixture fast approaching. “Typically, pre-season is about six to eight weeks long, but this year is different,” he noted. “We have a fantastic opportunity to make a mark internationally. Facing Al-Seeb will be tough, but we’re prepared to give our best.”
The upcoming season will also see changes in the coaching staff. Spaniards Marc Gamon (Goalkeeping Coach) and David Ramos (Strength & Conditioning Coach) join the technical team, replacing Asier Ray Santin and Jose Carlos Barroso. Gamon reunites with Márquez after previously working together at Hyderabad FC and with the Indian national team. Ramos, meanwhile, brings experience from stints in Spain and China. Assistant Coaches Benito Montalvo and Gouramangi Singh Moirangthem will continue in their roles.
Coach Márquez has forged a strong bond with the Goan fans, a relationship he deeply values. “My connection with the supporters has grown each year. Their unwavering backing, even during tough times, has meant a lot. We hope their support continues to fuel us this season.”
With his eyes firmly set on both domestic and continental success, Márquez’s return signals a promising new chapter for FC Goa — built on stability, trust, and a vision for excellence.
