It gives me great joy, says Bruzon after 100 games in Kings' charge
Oscar Bruzon, who has coached in Spain, India, Maldives and Bangladesh, has reached a milestone of guiding Bashundhara Kings in 100 games as they played against Swadhinata Krira Sangha on Sunday. The Spaniard, apart from working as the head coach of Bangladesh national football team, had already steered Kings to two Bangladesh Premier League, two Federation Cup and one Independence Cup since he took over in 2018. The 44-year-old coach talked to The Daily Star's Anisur Rahman and expressed his views on different aspects of the game. The excerpts of the interview are as follows:
The Daily Star (DS): Do you know that Bashundhara Kings notched up a victory in their overall 100th match under your guidance. How do you feel?
Oscar Bruzon (OB): Well, you gave this news and it gives me great joy, especially on a day when our team got an important win.
DS: Out of 100 matches, Kings won 77, drew 15 and lost only 8. How challenging was it for Kings to maintain a consistent performance?
OB: The numbers show the ambition of our club since inception. We have been firm and consistent in our belief to keep being a well recognised winning unit.
DS: What is your coaching philosophy?
OB: Above all, it goes with the joy of being part of a unique setting where every member of our club enjoys their profession.
In particular, having a determined, positive and motivated coaching staff in pretty good harmony with our squad of players, being always at their service to empower their capabilities and guide them towards constant improvement.
Our club foster a working culture of cooperation and inclusivity and that is what we need to focus and rely on.
Also read: Figueira shines on debut
DS: Apart from Bangladesh, you also worked in top-flight football in India and Maldives. Where did you feel comfortable to work and why?
OB: Since I started my coaching career, I mostly had great learning experiences in South Asia and also in Spain. Nevertheless, it is true that maturity came in the last five to six years following results of work.
DS: Have you seen any changes in Bangladesh domestic football since your involvement with Kings in 2018?
OB: Real progression in the competitiveness of the clubs, a clear idea from all stakeholders to bring more and more football fans to the galleries and higher coverage from media, including a good quality tv broadcasting.
In my opinion, playing games all around the country with home venues makes the league much more attractive.
DS: How do you rate the Bangladesh Premier League compared to ones of Maldives and India?
OB: In Maldives, nowadays you can find only one club matching the international standards and the level of competitiveness required.
In India almost every club at ISL [Indian Super League] are at an adequate level for the Asian international arena, probably it is the most competitive league in the region. And I would add Gokulam Kerala, playing at the I-League but had just completed one year without a single loss.
Finally in Bangladesh, you can find that this season, four to five teams are in the title contest. I believe that on a basis of full strength and no injuries, any of these clubs could match the required levels for the international club competitions.
DS: Lastly, how long do you want to work in Bangladesh?
OB: At the end of the season, we will sit and discuss what is best for all.
Comments