Indian Super League (ISL) came as a blessing for football in India. Quickly emerging as the most competitive competition in the country it has served the sports in many ways. It has been constantly helping in developing the young and emerging talents across the country and supporting the sport in an overall manner.
If we keep the players aside, ISL has also witnessed some really experienced managers both from in and around India. Many managers have impressed fans with their new ideas and game-play. We’ve listed below 5 of the most successful coaches in the Indian Super League.
1. Clifford Miranda (FC Goa)
With an average of 2.40 point-per-match, Clifford Miranda is the first on our list. He has although been in charge of FC Goa for only 5 matches. He was appointed as the head coach of the Goan side on an interim basis in 2020. His run as the boss was impressive but was replaced by Juan Ferrando. He still is a part of the coaching staff of the club as the assistant coach.
2. Albert Roca (Bengaluru FC)
Currently serving as the fitness coach of FC Barcelona, Albert Roca was one of the best moves made by Bengaluru FC. He served as the head coach of Bengaluru for 2 years. In his term, he led the club to the finals of the 2016/17 AFC Cup. In doing this, they became the 1st Indian team to achieve the feat. He also helped them reach the ISL finals and won the 2016/17 Federation Cup. His average points-per-match was an impressive 2.10.
3. Sergio Lobera (FC Goa, Mumbai City FC)
Sergio Lobera is a La Masia product. One would expect no lesser standards when he was appointed as head coach of Mumbai City FC in 2020. And rightly so, his impact on the club was immediate. He led them to their maiden league title. The streak continued as they also won the ISL Winners’ Shield. He had previously led FC Goa to the 2019/20 Winners’ Shield and 2019 Super Cup. His name is engraved as one of the bests already with an average of 1.84 PPM.
4. Carles Cuadrat (Bengaluru FC)
Yet another manager with Catalonian ties. Former Barcelona B coach, Carles Cuadrat was initially an assistant coach at Bengaluru FC in 2016. In the next couple of years, he established himself as the main man, taking control as the head coach in 2018. He has since then led the club to their maiden ISL title. Although their 2020/21 season was not up to the mark, the 52-year-old will look to impress this season. He has an average of 1.70 PPM.
5. Khalid Jamil (NorthEast United)
The one name that comes to every Indian’s mind when we talk of successful managers is Khalid Jamil. One of the most decorated coaches in Indian football history, Jamil has won numerous silverware. He previously managed several clubs in the I-League and also took charge of the Indian national team for 3 years (1998-2001). Last season, the 44-year-old was appointed as interim head of NorthEast United. Their unbeaten streak of 10 consecutive matches under his guidance, led them to the playoffs. Jamil also became the first-ever Indian coach to reach the ISL playoffs. He holds an average of 1.69 PPM.
