Our targets are the main leagues - I-League and Super Cup, says East Bengal coach

East Bengal faces a tricky start to the upcoming 2019 domestic season as they gear up to play three matches in the space of two days next week. Coach Alejandro Menendez who took charge of his first practice session this year lashed out at the fixture list which sees the Red and Golds play twice in three days, first against George Telegraph on July 31 in the Calcutta Football League (CFL) and against Army Red on August 3 in the Durand Cup. 

"It is not acceptable to play two matches in three days. It is an absolute disaster and no professional team must work like that. The team we have will play all the tournaments. Our targets are the main leagues; I-League and Super Cup. We have to take care of all our players we have to take care of the development of our academy players as well.

They are not only here for practice but to play. Our goals are to make the players better and improve our strategies and tactics. We have to keep them fit so that they can give their best. They have great motivation. Our job is to develop them," Menendez was quoted as saying by Goal.com.

The former Real Madrid Castilla coach also revealed that the Red and Golds are in advanced talks to sign a new striker after the departure of India forward Joby Justin to ATK ahead of the start of the 2019 season.