Carlos Pena holds warm memories of his Indian adventure, especially his term as FC Goa’s head coach during the 2022–23 Indian Super League. Although the team missed out on the playoffs by a narrow margin—just three points behind Odisha FC—Pena reflects on it with gratitude. “There are no regrets. It was a valuable learning curve,” he shared during a recent call with TOI.

Having led Goa as a player to ISL Shield and Super Cup victories, Pena was handed the coaching reins at a challenging juncture. The club had ended the prior season in ninth place. Under him, they improved, staying competitive throughout, but three successive defeats at the end dashed their playoff hopes. A particularly painful loss came at home against Chennaiyin FC, a side that didn’t even make the top six.

Had veteran coach Manolo Marquez not come on board, Pena might have stayed on. But with Manolo’s arrival, Pena had to move on. He soon found himself in Thailand, managing Ratchaburi FC, and now helms Persija Jakarta in Indonesia’s top-flight league. “Every country offers a unique football culture. Coaching in Thailand and Indonesia has enriched my understanding of the game,” he said.

Despite being away, Pena keeps a close watch on the ISL. He admires the league’s evolution, noting how no game is easy anymore. With his current season nearing its end and fresh possibilities on the horizon, a return to India might just be on the cards.

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