Hyderabad FC scripted history in the finals of the Indian Super League against Kerala Blasters. They were trailing by a goal as the Nizams made a comeback in the second half and forced extra time and penalties, eventually lifting the ISL trophy.
Hyderabad FC boss Manolo Marquez has been a great presence for this team. Second choice goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh who had to sit out the season due to Laxmikant Kattimani’s heroics shared anecdotes from the season gone by.
Gurmeet, who was with NorthEast United for three years, shifted loyalties and joined Hyderabad FC. He shared how giving more opportunities to younger players concvinced him to take the call. “Hyderabad FC’s performance in 2020-21 ISL Season was really inspiring regardless of the result. The entire team gave an outstanding performance during their second season in ISL. The club gave opportunities to young players who were able to showcase their full potential. This is what convinced me to be a part of the project,” he said in a interview with Khel Now.
Speaking about Manolo Marquez, Gurmeet highlighted how the Spaniard convinced him to join the club and guides him in every aspect. “Manolo Marquez is a great coach. It feels like I have gotten a lifetime opportunity to grow under his guidance. He is an amazing person and gives opportunities to young players to explore their talent.”
Gurmeet then opened up on Hyderabad FC’s run to the finals as he shared how the players were always confident of making it big this season as the team had everything starting from a great coach to young Indian talent and experienced foreigners. But there were obstacles aswell as the sudden rise in COVID in their camp meant that they had to lose a plot for a couple of games but they remained focused and showed tremendous character in winning the cup.
“We had a hard-working team and we believed in ourselves. We were very confident and stayed positive throughout the tournament. Our journey obviously had a lot of ups and downs because of the Covid situation in the end, but we made it to the finals and won it. I am happy and proud of the entire team,” he said.
Lastly the young goalkeeper thanked the fans as he feels that it was there messages that kept them afloat in the bubble and helped them work harder towards their goals. “I would like to thank all the Hyderabad FC fans for all their support and belief that they had in our team. Their support was a constant motivation for us. They were always with us through the thick and thin and are undoubtedly a very important part of us,” He concluded.
