Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) has turned to two-time Indian Super League (ISL) winner Sergio Lobera as its new head coach, the club announced on Wednesday, bringing an end to Jose Francisco Molina’s tenure following a turbulent start to the season. Lobera, who previously guided Mumbai City FC to both the ISL Shield and Cup in the 2020–21 campaign, has signed an initial contract that runs until the end of the current season and will officially join the squad on November 30.
Molina’s exit comes despite his strong achievements last year, when he led Mohun Bagan to the ISL Shield and Cup double. However, his relationship with the club deteriorated this season after a series of disagreements with management. The rupture grew wider when the team refused to travel to Iran for its AFC Champions League 2 match against Sepahan. Further friction arose over transfer decisions, particularly the club’s hesitation to sign a foreign attacking midfielder—a move Molina had strongly pushed for.
In a brief statement issued on Wednesday, the club confirmed the change in leadership, saying, “Mohun Bagan Super Giant has mutually terminated the contract with José Molina. We wish him success in his future journey.” Moments later, the announcement of Lobera as his successor followed, signalling a decisive shift for the Kolkata-based side.
Lobera, known for his attacking philosophy and possession-based play, expressed his excitement at joining one of India’s most storied football institutions. “Taking charge at Mohun Bagan Super Giant is a huge honour for me. This club has a lot of history, passion, and ambition. I am committed to building a team that will play with courage, a unique identity, and a winning mentality. We will work together to make this chapter unforgettable,” he said.
The Spaniard also highlighted the strength he sees within the squad. “This team has the talent and spirit needed to dominate Indian football. I have come here to take that potential to greater heights. Mohun Bagan deserves to be at the top, and we will work every day to turn that dream into reality.”
Lobera arrives at Mohun Bagan after parting ways with Odisha FC, a club currently facing uncertainty as it temporarily suspends operations amid doubts surrounding the 2025–26 ISL season. During his stint with Odisha, which began in May 2023, he led the Juggernauts to the 2024 Super Cup final, where they finished runners-up to East Bengal. His tenure also saw the side claim fourth place in the 2023–24 ISL season before a semifinal exit in the play-offs, followed by a seventh-place finish last season.
With his track record and distinctive coaching style, Lobera’s appointment signals a fresh, ambitious chapter for Mohun Bagan as it looks to regain momentum and restore stability on and off the pitch.
