Tete-a-tete with Mohammedan SC assistant coach Alison Kharsyntiew
By Monojit Mandal
In the realm of Indian football, Mohammedan Sporting Club’s recent conquest of the I-League shines as a beacon of collective effort and strategic foresight.
Assistant Coach Alison Kharsyntiew, in an exclusive interview with The Shillong Times, unveils the intricate layers of the team’s journey and its ambitions on the brink of an historic promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL).
Kharsyntiew, with characteristic humility, deflects personal acclaim for the I-League victory, attributing it to a unified front spanning management, technical staff, players, and support personnel. “It was purely teamwork,” he asserts, “from the management to the technical team, the players, and all backroom staff.”
He reserves special praise for Head Coach Andrey Chernyshov’s leadership and innovative strategies that propelled the team to success.
Delving into the catalysts behind Mohammedan Sporting’s triumph, Kharsyntiew underscores meticulous planning and flawless execution on and off the field.
“Proper football philosophy,” he elaborates, “suited to the quality of the players, coupled with unwavering character throughout the season,” were instrumental. He acknowledges the unwavering support of the fans as a driving force behind the team’s achievements.
Yet, the journey to the championship was strewn with hurdles, requiring resilience and unwavering determination.
“We stuck to our philosophy,” Kharsyntiew reflects, “kept calm, and persevered through adversities.”
As Mohammedan Sporting braces for a potential induction into the ISL, Kharsyntiew discerns the seismic implications for Indian football.
“It heralds another level of challenge,” he emphasizes, underlining the profound impact on Kolkata’s football landscape.
Looking ahead, Kharsyntiew underscores the imperative of sustaining momentum and excellence amid the transition. “We must meet the requisite standards,” he asserts, emphasizing meticulous preparation.
In assessing the coaching staff’s role in the team’s ascendancy, Kharsyntiew extols a collective effort encompassing technical, tactical, and holistic player development.
Expressing gratitude to the stalwart supporters, Kharsyntiew acknowledges their indispensable role in Mohammedan Sporting’s triumph.
“Keep believing,” he urges, “for our journey is far from over.”
In addressing the void in Indian strikers highlighted by national head coach Igor Stimac, Kharsyntiew spotlights burgeoning talents within the I-League like David from Mohammedan Sporting and Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia from Aizawl FC.
However, he advocates for a fortified grassroots foundation to nurture indigenous talent effectively.
As Mohammedan Sporting charts its trajectory towards new horizons, it does so propelled by the ethos of teamwork, resilience, and a profound appreciation for the steadfast support of its fans.
