CFC head coach Laszlo hungry for success

Currently at the top of the tree after penning a one-season deal last week, 56-year old Laszlo has right away struck a bond with his “family members” at Chennaiyin. The Romania-born Hungarian emphasised that he would use the off-field harmony as a catalyst to achieve on-field success in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2020-21.

“According to me, it is not just about the tactics. A lot depends on how you deal with the players and support staff in the dressing room, and how you build a relationship with them,” Laszlo, a newcomer to ISL, told DT Next during a virtual interaction on the Zoom application. “Always, I need to act like a father or mother or wife. But, at the same time, I should respect everyone and keep a certain distance.” Each of Laszlo’s three predecessors – Marco Materazzi, John Gregory and Owen Coyle – guided CFC to at least the final of the playoffs format, with the first two going the distance.

Asked if he is confident of continuing the trend, the manager responded: “I know the history of Chennaiyin. At present, it is one of the most successful clubs in Indian football. Both CFC and I always target success. Winning the title will be a huge challenge. The first goal is to finish in the top-four. Once we get there, we will take it one game at a time.” 

Laszlo, upon arrival in India, will inherit half of the CFC squad that remarkably made it to the ISL 2019- 20 final under Coyle. As many as 13 players, including foreign recruits Rafael Crivellaro and Eli Sabia, have been tied down by the twice league champion. The former Uganda national team coach said that familiarity within the group would be of great help in the upcoming edition, which is set to be hosted under difficult circumstances in Goa.

“Three or four important players from last season are no longer a part of Chennaiyin because of different reasons. However, half of the squad is the same. Those players will know each other well and that is key for me. I will respect what they achieved together, and look to lift them up once again so that we can come good in ISL 7,” he explained. “As far as foreign replacements are concerned, I will bring in players who will adapt to the mentality of our club. I am not here to fill up the spots in the squad,” stated Laszlo.