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Entering their third season in the I-League in 2022-23, Sudeva Delhi FC feature a number of exciting Indian players and will be led by Japanese tactician Atsushi Nakamura, who brings in the experience of having worked with the Bhutan national team, as well as Japanese clubs like Togichi City FC and Sagan Tosu FC.
“I came here in September and got straight to work. I am working each day to understand and learn more about the club as a whole, the first team, and the players. It’s my first time here in India and I am looking forward to the experience. Once time permits, I would love to explore the country too!” Nakamura quipped in a chat with I-League Media.
Sudeva Delhi FC competed in the Durand Cup earlier this year as well and the Japanese coach feels that the team is taking the right steps to prepare for the season ahead.
“We are still in preparation mode and still have some processes to complete in order to compete well. We are advancing well and taking things one at a time. The whole squad is excited for the challenge ahead,” he said.
Among the club’s ranks are some promising young Indian forwards such as R Lawmnasangzuala, Sridarth Nongmeikapam, and Shubho Paul, along with two solid goalkeeping options in Sachin Jha and Kabir Kohli. The likes of Lalfelkima, Lalengmawia, and Akbar Khan, all of whom have multiple seasons of experience in the league, add solidity to the squad.
Nakamura said, “The club is giving opportunities to many young players this season and we are confident that we can put together a good, cohesive team. It is a delight to work with these young players, who have a lot of potential and have been improving with every training session.”
The 49-year-old expects the foreign signings to play a key role in the matches to come and take the team in the right direction. “Our overseas players will be important for us. Daniel (Cyrus) is a center-back who will have a vital role to play in defence and possesses good height, heading, and passing along with leadership qualities.”
“Kosuke (Yamazaki) is a technically sound player who can control the tempo of the game from midfield with Daniel. Isaac (Kwane Essel) is a young striker and has the necessary attributes, and Chidi (Felix Odili) has already achieved success in India and understands the game well,” Nakamura stated.
Sudeva Delhi FC, who are the sole representatives of the national capital in the league, will play their home matches at the Chhatrasal Stadium in New Delhi and the head coach expects strong home support.
“Fans are a crucial part of any club and we are very happy to play in front of our supporters this season. It is our duty to play good football for them and we look forward to receiving their support,” Nakamura signed off.
