ISL 2018: Bengaluru FC coach Albert Roca set to leave by end of season

What's the story?

If rumours are to be believed, Bengaluru FC could be bidding an emotional farewell to their head coach, Albert Roca by the end of this season. Roca's contract will expire on May 31st, after which he reportedly wishes to move back to his home grounds in Spain.

In case you didn't know...

Albert Roca, was a Spanish central defender during his time, after which he took on the job as head coach for I-League champions, Bengaluru FC in July 2016. It was under his guidance that the team became the first Indian club to reach the finals of the AFC Cup. It was also under Roca's guidance that they won the Federation Cup 2016-2017.

He was met with loud cheers and requests to stay on at the club when he walked onto the field during Bengaluru's FC's home game against Aizawl FC on Wednesday. At the post-match press conference, as well, Roca preferred to stay mum about his future with the club.

The heart of the matter

Albert Roca seems to have made his decision as he wishes to move back to Spain once his 2-year contract expires. It has been learnt that the reason for Roca's decision is family priorities as he is finding it tough to stay away for long periods of time. He is said to have visited his home only twice in two years, as he was under the pressure of seeing to his club during the AFC Cup as compared to other coaches of the ISL clubs.

Despite the club management's efforts to make him stay with offers of a higher salary that would make him the highest paid coach in India, Roca seems to have chosen family first.

Meanwhile, Mandar Tamhane, the club's Chief Technical Officer, is believed to be scouting for a new coach in Spain.

What's next?

At this moment, there is a huge shadow on Roca's future at the club. If he does decide to leave, it will be interesting to see who is roped in as the new coach for the Blues.

Author's take

Albert Roca surely uplifted the performance of Bengaluru FC with his guidance. Should he leave, Bengaluru will definitely be dealt a huge blow. And, his successor would have some big shoes to fill.