Churchill Brothers FC has announced the election of Francesc “Fran” Bonet Caruncho or famously known ad Francesc Bonet, the Spanish tactician and former coach of Rajasthan United FC, Gokulam Kerala FC, and Namdhari FC, as the head coach for the remaining part of the I-League 2023-24 season.
After just five games into their inaugural I-League season, Namdhari FC made a surprising move by mutually parting ways with their head coach, Francesc Bonet, on December 26, 2023.
Namdhari’s season began on a challenging note, with the Punjab-based team securing only four points from their first six games. The decision to part ways with the head coach came unexpectedly, considering the early stage of the competition.
About Churchill Brothers’ New Head Coach Francesc Bonet
Francesc Bonet, hailing from Barcelona, embarked on his managerial journey by training youth teams at several local Catalonian clubs. His notable coaching career in Indian football began in December 2021 when I-League club Rajasthan United appointed him as the head coach for the 2021-22 season. Bonet made a strong impression in his inaugural season as the head of a first-team squad.
Following his successful stint with Rajasthan United, Bonet took on the role of head coach at Gokulam Kerala on December 27, 2022. During his tenure, Gokulam achieved a commendable third-place finish in the league for the season. Bonet’s record included nine wins and nine losses in the 18 games for which he was in charge. He parted ways with the club in June 2023.
Continuing his coaching journey, Francesc Bonet joined Namdhari FC as the head coach on October 6, 2023. Despite high expectations, his time with the club was cut short, and he bid farewell not even halfway into the season, marking a significant turn of events in his coaching career in Indian football.
Churchill Brothers Sacked Edgardo Malvestitti
On January 6, 2024, Churchill Brothers FC officially announced the departure of their head coach, Edgardo Malvestitti. The club disclosed that the decision was reached through mutual agreement between the management and the Argentine coach.
Malvestitti, who assumed the role in 2023, had a varied tenure with Churchill Brothers FC. Throughout his time at the helm, the team experienced both highs and lows, showcasing moments of brilliance on the field but also encountering challenges that impeded consistent success. Under Malvestitti’s leadership in 10 games, Churchill won 3, drew 3, and lost 4 matches.
Expressing gratitude for Malvestitti’s contributions and efforts during his term, Churchill Brothers FC acknowledged his commitment and hard work in shaping the team. Currently positioned in 10th place with 12 points in the ongoing I-league, the club is navigating the season with an eye on improvement.
In the Goa Football League (GFA Pro League) at SAG ground, Benaulim, on Tuesday, Churchill Brothers FC secured a 2-1 victory over Calangute Association.
The scoring action began early in the game when Trijioy Dias of Churchill Brothers opened the scoreline in the 5th minute. As the match advanced into the second half, Melvin Lobo from Calangute Association leveled the score, netting a goal in the 49th minute.
However, it was Alent Colaco of Churchill Brothers who proved to be the match-winner, securing the victory for his team with a goal in the 51st minute.
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