Mumbai City FC’s 2018-19 season of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) commences on Tuesday at home against Jamshedpur FC. The Islanders will be looking to achieve a playoff spot after finishing in a disappointing seventh place last season, while the visitors would also aim for the same, having missed out narrowly in 2017-18.

After Alexandre Guimaraes’ departure from the club, Jorge Costa has been appointed as the new head coach of the Islanders. On the other hand, after Steve Coppell shifted base to ATK, Jamshedpur have hired Cesar Ferrando to replace him at the helm. Prior to the game, both the coaches were present at the pre-match press conference to take questions from the media.

Costa started off by speaking about the team’s mentality ahead of their opening game. “I’m sure we are ready for this first game. It’s always difficult to start but what I hope is that the players play free without any pressure, make a good start and fight, play a good game with quality and fight for three points.”

Talking about the side’s transformation from the previous campaign, the Portuguese coach pointed out the side’s performances during pre-season. “Last season was our reality and it’s not correct for me to speak about things I don’t know. I was not here. Till now, we have won seven friendly games and we are scoring goals. I can’t wait for the first game and see what we can do. I hope to be happy with the performance.”

Talking about Jamshedpur’s pre-season campaign, Ferrando said that he was happy with the team’s performances but is now solely focused on the tie against Mumbai. “I think we had a good pre-season and I’m happy with my decisions, but tomorrow’s game will be most important. We have worked the maximum. I hope we can give it our all and gain three points.”

Ferrando will be without new signing Tim Cahill and veteran goalkeeper Subrata Paul, as the pair have been ruled out owing to suspension. The Spaniard will have to rely on Subhasish Roy in goal while Sergio Cidoncha will most likely lead the forward line. 

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