FC Pune City name Habas as head coach

FC Pune City on Monday named Spaniard Antonio Lopez Habas as their head coach for the third edition of the Indian Super League (ISL).

Habas was the coach of rivals Atletico de Kolkata in the first two editions of the tournament, guiding them to the trophy in the first season and the semi-finals last year.

The 58-year-old will replace Englishman David Platt, who is leaving after just a season in charge at FC Pune. Under him, Pune failed to qualify for the semi-finals last year.

"The commitment of the (FC Pune City) management for having me as a part of the club and all its planning from the beginning was one of the primary reasons for me to join. This certainly is one of the most professionally managed club in the league and changing their fortunes will be a challenge that I am eagerly looking forward to," Habas said in a statement.

The Spaniard has earlier coached across Spain, South America and Africa.

"To be the best, you have to bring the best. Antonio's track record in the Indian Super League speaks volumes of his capabilities. We are here to give him what he wants so he can give us what we want, i.e. the ISL trophy," Gaurav Modwel, CEO of FC Pune City, said in the statement.

--IANS

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