Gokulam Kerala FC coach Fernando Varela hopes to script history by winning I-League

The ‘Giant Killers’ in Indian football have lived up to its hype recently having lifted their maiden Durand Cup title after a 2-1 win over Mohun Bagan in the title clash. Argentine coach Fernando Varela should be heavily credited for the feat and he feels that the Malabarians have the firepower to clinch the coveted I-League trophy this season. 

"In the first year, I bagged the Kerala Premier League and now I got the Durand Cup. We are ready and have a strong team and hope to create history with Gokulam by winning I-League,” said the coach during an interview with Sportskeeda.

The I-League has been full of surprises over the past three years, giving new and unpredictable champions in the likes of Aizawl FC, Minerva Punjab FC, and Chennai City FC. Even though Gokulam Kerala FC have a decent chance to outsmart most of the teams in the championship race, Varela feels there are four teams which can pose a threat to their title aspirations.

"The other teams that reached the semi-finals in Durand Cup – Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Real Kashmir – and of course Chennai City, the last year's champions (can pose a threat). But, I think we have improved a lot from last year. We have changed our mentality and improved our style from last year while retaining the same players,” added Varela.

The I-League is scheduled to kick-off on November 2.