The Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) once again takes centre stage as Kerala Blasters host ATK in the first match of the second half of the season. Steve Coppell’s side have added reinforcements during the winter transfer window, most notably creative maestro Edu Garcia. The Spaniard had previously represented Bengaluru FC during the 2017-18 campaign and is certain to bolster ATK’s attacking firepower.

Ahead of the tie against Kerala, Garcia spoke exclusively to indiansuperleague.com on what he expects from his first match back in India as well as ATK’s chances of finishing in the top four. Here are the excerpts:

How does it feel to be back in the Hero ISL?

I am very happy to have joined ATK and returned to the Hero ISL. I was very happy here in my first stint, with Bengaluru FC And I think now it is a new challenge for me with a new club. I can’t wait to start against Kerala Blasters so, I am very happy.

How has the adjustment period with your new club been?

I think we have a very good team and very good players. I think the club is an important club here in India. They know how to do the things and we are focusing on the remaining six matches. We want to reach our goals and I think we have a lot of good things in the side to be able to reach those goals. 

Having lost to Kerala Blasters in the reverse fixture, will your side be out for revenge?

Revenge? You know football is just a game, a sport. I think India has a very good atmosphere around football. In other countries, people are very, very crazy and sometimes they fight. I think football is for enjoyment and you know how to enjoy. So, I don't like the idea of revenge.

Do you think ATK can finish in the top four?

Yes, of course. That's why I am here. I think we really have an opportunity to be in the semi-finals, but we know it will difficult. We have six finals in a row now. The first final is in Kerala and we have to win. We know it will be a very difficult match but if we do what we have to do, we have an opportunity to win.

What is the one thing you like about India?

I love a lot of things about India. I love the people in India because I feel they are very similar to Spanish people I think here in India, life is good, and I really love it.