Hailing the proposed roadmap for Indian football, ATK chief coach Antonio Habas on Thursday said they are highly motivated to top the standings, which will give them a berth in the AFC Champions League playoffs.
As per the roadmap, the Indian Super League will replace the I-League as the top-tier competition in the country and the ISL table toppers – not the champions – will get a ticket for the AFC Champions League playoffs.
“It is a big recognition which will motivate us more. It is a very good opportunity for players as they would get to play against the best of players of Asia,” Habas said on the sidelines of ATK Media Day in Kolkata.
Following two unforgettable seasons, the two-time champions have invested heavily, buying A-League’s Golden Boot recipient Roy Krishna and brought back their most successful manager Habas, who guided the team to the inaugural title and then a playoff berth in the first two seasons.
“I have the same target – to win. We are here to compete every day. I am very happy with the behaviour of my players. They are all charged up,” he said as the team gears up for the sixth season with a clash with Kerala Blasters on Sunday.