In the ever-evolving landscape of the Indian Super League (ISL), certain head coaches have left an indelible mark not just with silverware but with a philosophy that endures. Josep Gombau is one such figure.

While the Spaniard doesn’t boast any glittering success in India to his name, his impact on the game, particularly at Odisha FC, is a testament to a more profound legacy. The former FC Barcelona Youth assistant manager and Espanyol Technical Director came to the league with a high-profile resume, and his legacy was defined by his commitment to this ideology and his role in nurturing young Indian talent.

Gombau’s journey in the ISL began with Delhi Dynamos FC and later he took over at Odisha FC. Hailing from La Masia, Gombau arrived with a clear vision: to play an attractive, possession-based brand of football.

The Spaniard’s most significant contribution was his unwavering dedication to youth development. Under his tutelage, young talents like Jerry Mawihmingthanga and Nandhakumar Sekar blossomed, finding their rhythm and confidence in his system.

From his transformative stint with Delhi Dynamos FC to his role in building the foundation of Odisha FC and a return to unfinished business, we take a look at Gombau’s compelling journey in the ISL.

Early impact with Delhi Dynamos FC

When Josep Gombau arrived in India in 2018, taking charge of Delhi Dynamos FC, the club was in a state of flux. Not going for a quick-fix solution, he instilled a possession-based, attacking brand of football.

They finished eighth on the table and did not qualify for the playoffs. The true measure of Gombau's impact wasn't found in the league standings. He emphasised short passes, sharp movement, and building from the back, and had laid the first stone of a new, long-term project.

Gombau’s side recorded four wins and six draws in 18 games, while also registering three clean sheets. He also recorded his longest unbeaten streak (six matches) as a head coach in the ISL with Delhi Dynamos FC, where he won four games while drawing two between December 2018 and February 2019.

Nurturing youth and building the foundation at Odisha FC

In 2019, Gombau signed for Odisha FC and with the move, he found a new home for his youth-centric philosophy.

Gombau's tenure with the Kalinga Warriors was highlighted by his sheer belief in young Indian prospects. Players like Shubham Sarangi, Gaurav Bora, and Jerry Mawihmingthanga thrived under his guidance, emerging as key figures in the squad.

Gombau’s coaching wasn't just about tactics; it was about instilling confidence and a sense of responsibility in his players.

Odisha FC fell short of qualifying for the ISL Playoffs in their debut season, finishing in sixth spot with 25 points from 18 games, four points shy of the top four. The Kalinga Warriors recorded a 38.89% win percentage and averaged 1.39 points per game under his guidance in the 2019-20 season.

The second stint and unfinished business

A highly anticipated return that was meant to complete the unfinished business. After a brief departure, Gombau returned to Odisha FC for the 2022-23 season.

This time, the Spaniard delivered a more tangible result, steering the Kalinga Warriors to their first-ever ISL playoffs. Under his watchful eyes, Odisha FC finished the league table at the sixth spot with 30 points from 20 games.

Gombau maintained a 42.86% winning rate in his second stint with the Kalinga Warriors, where he averaged 1.43 points per match. While his second stint was short-lived, with the club parting ways with him after the season, it served as a powerful reminder of Gombau's influence.

The experienced head coach took a struggling side and, in a single season, propelled them to their maiden ISL playoffs. He introduced a philosophy with a clear vision and a deep-seated belief, nurtured young talents, and proved that a long-term vision can yield tangible results.

Even without any silverware to his name, Gombau never strayed from his philosophy. Season after season, he delivered results and helped unlock the potential of Indian players who thrived under his guidance. For Odisha FC, he will always be remembered as a legend and one of the league’s most impactful head coaches.