Cricket’s Winning Strategies Can Revolutionize India’s Football Future: A Lesson from Juan Pedro Benali
As the head coach of NorthEast United FC, Juan Pedro Benali is no stranger to the world of football. With a wealth of experience in Europe, Africa, and Asia, his passion for the sport is evident. On his 56th birthday, he took a break from an intense training session at the Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati to celebrate with his players and later sat down for an exclusive interview with The Assam Tribune.
Despite being new to the Indian football scene, Benali has quickly made an impact, and his extensive experience has proved valuable in guiding the team. “A little bit, yes” is his response to whether he has followed cricket, a sport he is still learning to appreciate. “I like it when India plays. I’m also learning a little about the rules of the game, but it’s not easy for me. It’s a bit too long, and sometimes it gets boring.” However, he believes Indian football can learn valuable lessons from cricket, particularly in terms of using technology.
Benali’s commitment to the team is evident, and he sees the importance of continuity in football. “Continuity is crucial,” he stressed. “When a coach or player stays at a club for a long time, it becomes their home. There is a sense of belonging, something to fight for beyond money. You fight for your family, for those who love the club. The club becomes part of you.” His tenure with NorthEast United has seen him become a fan favorite, but he humbly attributes the team’s progress to the collective effort of the coaching staff, medical team, ground staff, management, and players.
Looking to the future, Benali envisions a NorthEast United FC that is a force to be reckoned with. “We want to make this team great. We want to reach a stage where we have a strong grassroots system and don’t always need to look outside for players. Opposing teams should think twice before facing NorthEast United.” A robust developmental system is key to achieving this goal, and he believes silverware will eventually follow.
Benali’s ultimate ambition is to see NorthEast United represent India in Asian competitions, and he is thrilled to see the growth of the team. “When we first arrived, attracting players was a challenge. Now, everyone wants to join NorthEast United. That means we’re doing something right,” he said. “Scouting has become easier, but we must continue identifying young talent. We don’t want to be a club that fluctuates between success and struggle. We need solid roots.”
As the future of Indian football looks bright, Benali is optimistic. “India is a vast country. If even 10 per cent of the population loves football, that is 150 million people – three times the population of Spain!” he noted. “Football is growing, and when you see kids playing on the streets, you know the future is bright.” His pride is evident in seeing NorthEast United players don the national team jersey, and he believes that the team’s popularity is a testament to the growth of Indian football.
As he heads to Shillong to watch the India versus Bangladesh match, Benali is excited about the future of the team and the sport in India. His words of wisdom for Indian football are clear: “Everyone dreams of becoming Messi or Ronaldo, but now I hear kids say they want to be like Redeem Tlang. That shows how much Indian football is evolving.”
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/sports/indian-football-can-learn-valuable-lessons-from-cricket-juan-pedro-benali-1572405
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Publish Date: 2025-03-26 20:08:00
