In the passionate crucible of Indian football, where expectation weighs heavily, Mohun Bagan Super Giant etched their name into the annals of the Indian Super League (ISL) this season, clinching a historic domestic double. Under the astute guidance of Mohun Bagan Coach Jose Molina, the Mariners first secured the League Winners’ Shield in March before capping a dominant campaign by lifting the ISL Cup, vanquishing Bengaluru FC in a tense final earlier this month. It’s a triumph built, according to Hose Molina himself, on the bedrock of hard work and inherent quality.
The scenes at the final whistle of the ISL Cup final told their own story: jubilation for the Green and Maroon legions, vindication for their Spanish strategist. For Jose Molina Coach, this wasn’t just another trophy; it was the culmination of a meticulously planned season, evidence of his coaching philosophy, and a confirmation of his Midas touch in the ISL, having previously led ATK Mohun Bagan’s former entity, ATK, to the title back in 2016.
The Road to Glory for Jose Molina Coach
Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s journey to the double was marked by consistency and a quiet ruthlessness. They navigated the league phase with impressive resilience, securing the Shield, which guaranteed them the top spot and a coveted AFC Champions League 2 group stage berth. The focus then shifted to the knockout stages and the ISL Cup.
Facing Bengaluru FC in the final – a repeat of a rivalry that has seen dramatic twists in recent seasons – Mohun Bagan Super Giant showcased the attributes their coach constantly emphasizes. While the match itself had its pivotal moments, Molina believes the groundwork laid throughout the season was crucial.
Speaking after the final victory, ATK Mohun Bagan coach Molina elaborated on his approach: “I believe in the process, and that takes care of the results,” he stated, cutting a figure of calm satisfaction amidst the celebrations. “Once you believe in the process, and you have the tools, by which I mean the quality of the players, support staff, and the fans, then you can have success.”
This emphasis on ‘process’ over pure ‘outcome’ is central to the Jose Molina Coach methodology. He continued, “We have everything of quality in Mohun Bagan, and that took us from one success to another. Now we have won two titles — the Shield and the Cup.”
The Spaniard, often seen meticulously observing from the touchline, stressed the relentless effort behind the scenes. “We worked hard every day to reach a level of preparation, and the players tried to put their best on the ground. That worked well for us as you cannot predict a result but work for it,” Molina added. His words reflect a manager who values preparation and application as much as flair and talent.
Acknowledging ATK Mohun Bagan Coach Jose Molina’s Deserved Success
Football, however, is a game of two sides. Bengaluru FC coach Gerard Zaragoza, though understandably disappointed after losing a second ISL final to the Kolkata giants in three seasons, acknowledged the champions’ quality. “I feel, for the fourth time in a row this season, we were better than them,” Zaragoza claimed, likely referring to specific periods within their encounters. However, he pointed to a key moment: “The penalty changed the match.”
Despite his initial assessment, Zaragoza conceded the bigger picture. “In extra time, my team went down, and they went up (in terms of performance). It is normal. Congratulations to Mohun Bagan. They deserve the season that they had,” he concluded, giving a respectful nod to the dominance Mohun Bagan Super Giant displayed over the campaign.
Fan Reaction for Mohun Bagan Super Giant: A City Celebrates, A Legacy Cemented
DOUBLE 🏅🏆#MBSG #JoyMohunBagan #আমরাসবুজমেরুন pic.twitter.com/2nXeVbEQSL
— Mohun Bagan Super Giant (@mohunbagansg) April 20, 2025
For the fervent supporters of Mohun Bagan Super Giant, this double represents more than just silverware. It signifies undisputed dominance in the ISL landscape, a validation of the club’s ambition and investment. The scenes across Kolkata following both the Shield and Cup wins were predictably euphoric, with fans celebrating the club’s most successful ISL season to date.
Social media buzzed with praise for the team and particularly for Mohun Bagan Coach Jose Molina. His tactical acumen, calm demeanour, and proven track record have resonated deeply with a fanbase that demands success. The memory of his 2016 triumph with ATK adds another layer to his legacy, positioning him as one of the most effective coaches in the league’s history.
Hose Molina’s Tactical Blueprint Elevates Mariners
While Hose Molina modestly credits the inherent “quality” and “hard work,” his tactical influence on Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s double-winning season cannot be overstated. The Spaniard has instilled a sense of structure, discipline, and adaptability that proved decisive throughout the campaign.
Molina’s system is not rigidly dogmatic but appears built on core principles: defensive solidity, controlled possession, and efficient transitions. He expertly utilised the depth and versatility of his squad, arguably one of the strongest on paper in the ISL. Key players thrived under his management, delivering consistent performances when it mattered most. His ability to manage a squad brimming with established stars and integrate them into a cohesive unit speaks volumes about his man-management skills.
Comparisons are inevitable in football, and Molina’s achievement immediately sparked debate about whether this Mohun Bagan Super Giant side under his tutelage represents the “best in business” in ISL history. While such declarations are subjective, the sheer dominance displayed – winning both major domestic trophies – provides compelling evidence. The ATK Mohun Bagan coach found solutions against various tactical setups, demonstrating flexibility often lacking in teams reliant purely on individual brilliance. There was a discernible plan, a clear identity to their play, something fans crave.
Where previous iterations or rivals might have faltered under pressure, Molina’s Mariners often found a way, grinding out results when not at their free-flowing best and showing clinical efficiency when opportunities arose. The perceived ‘process’ Molina speaks of manifests as on-field consistency. He successfully harnessed the potential of the squad he inherited and moulded it into a champion unit, blending experience with emerging talent effectively. His calm, analytical approach seems to permeate the team’s mindset, preventing panic in high-stakes situations.
Defending the Crown for Mohun Bagan Super Giant Coach Jose Molina
Mohun Bagan Coach Jose Molina has unequivocally delivered on the high expectations surrounding the club. Completing the ISL Shield and Cup double is a monumental achievement that cements both the club’s and the coach’s status at the pinnacle of Indian football for the 2024-25 season.
The focus for Mohun Bagan Super Giant will inevitably shift. Domestically, the challenge will be to defend their titles in the 2025-26 season, a task often harder than winning them the first time. Teams will analyse Molina’s methods, seeking ways to counter the Mariners’ dominance.
Furthermore, continental competition looms with the AFC Champions League 2 group stage. Performing on the Asian stage will be the next significant test for Molina and his squad, demanding further tactical evolution and resilience.
For now, however, Jose Molina and Mohun Bagan Super Giant can savour a season of unparalleled success. The Spaniard, through meticulous planning, belief in his process, and maximising the quality at his disposal, has orchestrated a campaign that will be long remembered, solidifying his reputation as a master tactician in the Indian Super League. The benchmark has been set, and the credit, as Molina insists, belongs to the collective, but the architect’s stamp is undeniable.
