ISL: Odisha FC sign Olivera and Balaguer as coaches

Odisha FC have roped in the services of Spanish duo Joaquin Valerio Olivera and Jose Mascaros Balaguer as goalkeeping coach and strength and conditioning coach respectively before the eight season of the Hero Indian Super League.

After hanging his boots from professional football, goalkeeping coach Joaquin Valerio Olivera was associated with a lot of Spanish clubs and he also ​​has UEFA ‘B’ goalkeeper coach and UEFA ‘A’ Licence.

“I am very excited about this new project and eager to start working. I am sure it will be a very good season and I will do my best and contribute to the Club with all my experience,” Olivera said in a release.

On the other hand, strength and conditioning coach Jose Mascaros Balaguer has all the experience in fitness training in football as he has been doing the job for the last 20 years.

“I am happy to sign for Odisha FC and looking forward to come down to India for the ISL. I am very excited for the new project and hope that we can achieve a lot for the Club,” he said.

Speaking about the two new members in the coaching team, OFC head coach Kiko Ramirez said, “Mascarós is going to help the team to be in a top condition. He has a lot of experience in top teams in the first division in Spain and with his experience, he will connect quickly with the squad.

“Similarly, Valerio has a lot of experience working in top teams, and belonging to the staff of Rafa Benítez. We are lucky to have both of them on board in this big project.”

Odisha FC had finished the previous season as wooden spooners as they could only manage two wins from 20 matches. Thus, both Oliver and Balaguer will look to help the team in turning the tables in the eighth season of the tournament.