In just his first season at the helm, Jose Molina has etched his name into Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s rich history by guiding the club to an unprecedented Indian Super League (ISL) double — clinching both the League Winners Shield and the ISL Cup. After narrowly missing out on the Cup last season, this campaign was all about redemption, evolution, and complete dominance.

The Kolkata giants under Molina left absolutely nothing out on the pitch, even though they fell just short in the Durand Cup final earlier in the season. But that early stumble only lit a fire. With a squad largely inherited from Antonio Habas, Molina added his touch — subtle tactical tweaks, clearly defined roles, and unwavering belief in his game plan — turning an already strong side into an unstoppable machine.

And the season might not be over just yet. With the Kalinga Super Cup on the horizon, there’s still a shot at winning another silverware — a fitting end to a campaign that fans will remember for years to come.

Inheriting Habas’ squad

Molina picked up where Habas left off. Having already won the ISL Cup with ATK FC in the past, he knew the league’s rhythm and expectations. Instead of a squad overhaul, he chose continuity, working with the core that brought success last year and building on it.

The club backed him in the transfer window, bringing in marquee players like Lalengmawia Ralte, Jamie Maclaren, and Greg Stewart. While the departure of Anwar Ali was a blow, Molina quickly found stability in a new central defensive pairing of Tom Aldred and Alberto Rodriguez.

His first competitive taste came in the Durand Cup, where MBSG had a promising run but lost in the final. That defeat, however, became a turning point, fueling the hunger and focus that would define the season ahead.

Early on, Molina experimented with formations, swapping between a back three and a traditional four-man defence. But it didn’t take long to settle on his ideal setup, with Aldred and Rodriguez forming a rock-solid partnership at the heart of the backline. The foundation was set, and the goals started flowing at the other end.

Defined roles and total belief

Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s ISL double wouldn’t have been possible without each player understanding and embracing their role. Molina’s greatest success wasn’t just tactical, it was psychological. He managed a star-studded squad with calm authority, ensuring everyone knew their job and felt valued.

From seasoned starters to game-changing substitutes, every player stepped up when needed. Whether it was Apuia's late heroics, Maclaren’s clinical finishing, or Stewart’s creative spark, every contribution felt like part of a larger, well-oiled system.

The Mariners' dominance wasn’t just about flashy football. They became unbeatable at home, ruthless in transitions, and incredibly disciplined off the ball. Comeback wins, derby dominance, and late drama were all part of the script - but this time, there was an added sense of control.

Unlike last season, where they had to wait until the final day to win the Shield, this term they wrapped it up with two games to spare. They finished eight points clear of second-placed FC Goa, setting new benchmarks along the way.

The belief in Molina’s squad was tested and proven during the playoffs as well. In the second leg of the semi-final, Apuia’s last-minute winner sealed a dramatic comeback at home.

“They believed in me with calm and stuck to the plan until the last moment. They didn't get frustrated until the end. Finally, we received, in my opinion, what we deserved,” said Molina after their dramatic last-minute victory over Jamshedpur FC in the semi-final.

Then, in the ISL Cup final, after falling behind early, MBSG responded once again, fighting back to lift the trophy that had eluded them last season.

These weren’t just wins — they were statements. This team didn’t just want to win; they knew how to fight, adapt, and believe. And that belief came straight from the top, spearheaded by their Spanish tactician Molina.

And the season might not be over just yet. With the Kalinga Super Cup set to begin on Sunday, there’s still a chance for more silverware. A potential treble is on the line — a fitting reward for a campaign that fans will remember for years to come.

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Mohun Bagan Super Giant2024-2025 Jose Francisco Molina