With the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) taking centre stage later this month, clubs have been getting their teams ready in time for the league’s fifth edition. One club that has seen plenty of change over the summer with regards to management and squad personnel has been Mumbai City FC. Ranbir Kapoor, co-owner of the Mumbai franchise, met with indiansuperleague.com for an exclusive interview where he spoke about his side’s preparation for the much-anticipated season as well as the growth of Indian football in the recent past.

Expectations for the season

The 2018-19 campaign of the Hero ISL promises to be better than ever with increased competition for the coveted title. Despite the quality of opposition and the host of changes made in the squad, Kapoor was hopeful that his side will come out on top by the end of the season.

“Well, it feels amazing. Football has really grown over the last few years and I think the Hero ISL has (played) a big role in doing that. Looking forward to this season again, there are some dramatic changes in our team and I’m really hoping for some positive results.”

Portuguese wit at the touchline

After Alexandre Guimaraes’ departure from the helm, Portuguese coach Jorge Costa has been appointed as the new man in charge. While appreciative of Guimaraes’ efforts, Kapoor strongly felt that Costa can take the Islanders to new heights during the 2018-19 season.

“I think the head coach Alex made a huge impact on Mumbai City Football Club. Everything he did for the team, I’m extremely grateful for - but this year with a new coach and the new signings, I’m hoping for something more dramatic, more positive in results and I really hope that we win the cup this time.”

Growth of Indian football

Indian football has seen a sharp growth in fan engagement over the past few years with the national team’s victory in the Hero Intercontinental Cup proving to be a major boon. Kapoor hopes that the league can have a similar kind of effect across the country during the Hero ISL.

“I think India winning the Hero Intercontinental Cup has also given us a great push, a great pat on the back. The way Sunil Chhetri led his team to victory and the kind of turnout that happened at the stadiums, I think that’s a very positive sign. And I hope that kind of support comes into the Hero ISL too, with people really supporting their favourite teams.”

Fresh blood on the pitch

With numerous additions during the summer transfer window, Mumbai City look like serial title contenders and Kapoor is among their many fans eagerly waiting for his side to take the pitch. “The teams look really strong on paper. Only once the Hero ISL starts, we really realise the quality of the game with every team. I’m really excited, I’m keeping my fingers crossed. I leave all the tactics to the coach and the managing team. So, I’m really looking forward - as a fan and a big supporter of Mumbai City.”

Mumbai City FC kick off their 2018-19 Hero ISL campaign at home on October 2^nd against Jamshedpur FC. Click here for the full season fixtures.