East Bengal appoint Bastab Roy as new head coach

Bastab Roy has joined Kolkata giants East Bengal as head coach for the 2018-19 season, the club confirmed in a press conference on Friday.

The position was left vacant after the Red and Golds  sacked Khalid Jamil following an underwhelming I-League season. The former Aizawl FC manager also had differences with Technical Director Subash Bhowmick towards the end of the Super Cup, which led to his ouster.

Roy has been associated with Indian Super League (ISL) side ATK since 2015 as an assistant coach and has tasted success after lifting the 2016 ISL title.

"The East Bengal job is challenging. Just because it was East Bengal, I didn't have to think twice. I am looking forward to work with Mr. Bhowmick," said the A-License holder.

He added, "There is more of an opportunity here. The opportunity of assistant coach in the ISL is limited. As a coach, I have to prove my worth. One thing I learned from ISL coaches (Antonio Habas, Teddy Sheringham and Jose Molina) is discipline.

"The pressure in East Bengal is more, fans expectations more and is more challenging. Maybe Mr Bhowmick thought he will be comfortable working with me that is why he chose me."

Technical Director Subash Bhowmick was elated with his new acquisition. "Initially Bastab rejected my offer. He was busy with ATK grassroots program. I had received seven applications from top Indian coaches. But later we spoke again and he agreed," he revealed how he got Roy to sign with the club.
 
"He has worked with two quality coaches like Molina and Habas. He has to understand that the pressure is immense. He has to learn how to handle that," added the veteran.

Bhowmick also provided an update on trainer Djair Miranda Garcia's future at the club. "The club will take a decision on Garcia (sson). The officials will decide keeping in mind the financial condition (of the club)," he commented.