‘We need fans in the stadium, not just when we’re winning’: Juan Pedro Benali

The Indian Super League (ISL) has grown by leaps and bounds but the enthusiasm for attending matches has seen a slow but steady decline, barring a few clubs. 

Just last week, FC Goa drastically slashed ticket prices, hoping to entice fans back to the stands, a stark sign of the need to rekindle fan engagement in the beautiful game.

Amidst this scenario, NorthEast United FC’s head coach Juan Pedro Benali has a clear message for fans: “Come to the stadium and support your team.” 

As the driving force behind the squad's recent resurgence, the coach is passionate about bringing fans back to the heart of the game.

In an exclusive interview with The Bridge, the charismatic coach discussed everything from stadium atmosphere, player development, and mentorship, to the potential of Indian football.

Bringing back the fans

“The biggest challenge is the absence of fans in the stadium,” Benali admitted, reflecting on the current state of Indian football.

“We have so many fans on social media but we need them at the stadiums, not just online. The support in person makes all the difference.”

He draws inspiration from Kerala Blasters, who continue to enjoy sold-out games, largely due to their die-hard fan base. 

“The atmosphere in the stadium in Kerala is something special. It’s like no other place in India. When you have a full stadium, it gives you extra energy. To see the stadium shaking, that has no price. That’s beautiful,” Benali said.

Asking for patience and perseverance, Benali urged fans to show up, rain or shine. 

“If you love football, if you care about your team, come to the stadium. This is where football happens. On social media, you can discuss but the energy, the real football, happens live,” he added. 

Delivering the first taste of success 

NorthEast United FC clinched their first-ever title a few months ago under the guidance of Benali.

The team toppled Mohun Bagan Super Giant 4-3 on penalties after the game finished 2-2 to win the 133rd Durand Cup title at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata.

“It’s an honor for me, personally, to write my name in the history of this club,” he said.

But for Benali, the victory goes beyond personal achievement. 

“But the bigger joy is seeing the happiness in the eyes of the people when we win. They’ve been waiting for this moment for years, and we’re working hard to bring trophies home,” he added.

Under Benali’s stewardship, NorthEast United FC is now considered a serious contender in the ISL. The transformation, however, did not happen overnight.

“We changed the mentality. It was about focusing on what we were doing right, becoming more positive, and pushing ourselves harder each day,” he explained.

“John and Mandar, who gave us everything we needed, were a huge help in this process,” this unity, Benali believes, is crucial to their success.

Nurturing young talent

Known for his focus on youth, Benali has integrated several young players into the NorthEast United squad. 

The Spaniard is very clear about the importance of smart players.

“What we prioritize the most is intelligence. If a player is smart, even if he has less raw talent, he will arrive,” he mentioned.

“The priority for me is not to be afraid of mistakes,” Benali said when asked about his approach to coaching younger players.

“I’m tough on them during training but it’s to prepare them for games, the pressure and the media.”

Benali understands that, as a coach, he also needs to be a mentor.

“There’s a saying, ‘You need the carrot and the stick.’ You can’t be too harsh or too lenient. As a coach, you’re like a father, a big brother, or an old friend. Players understand when you’re tough with them because they know you care,” he shared.

Indian Football and Manolo Marquez

Benali, who has coached in several countries, believes Indian football has immense potential but needs patience and a long-term approach. 

“The main issue with Indian football is that cricket is number one. But even 10% of India’s population interested in football is a huge number,” he mentioned.

Benali stresses the importance of long-term development, comparing India to other footballing nations. 

“Some countries have been playing at the top level for over 100 years and haven’t won anything. India can’t expect to win major titles overnight. You need to start by winning with the youth—under-17, under-19, and then the senior team,” he explained.

He expressed his support for the newly appointed national coach Manolo Marquez, praising him as someone who understands Indian football.

“Manolo knows what he’s doing. It’s a tough period, but he has the experience and knowledge. He just needs time. Football isn’t something you change in three days.”

His message is clear: “You need time. Football needs time.”

When asked about his views on the Indian national team’s player selection, Benali clarified his stance.

“I never criticized the ex-national team coach (Igor Stimac) for choosing older players. My issue was with the statement that club coaches weren’t preparing players well enough. Every coach picks the players they think will help the team win, and I respect that,” he said.

When asked about the style of play in Indian football, Benali clarified that it's not all about movement.

“It’s not about forcing a style like tiki-taka. You build the team around the strengths of the players you have. Beautiful football is nice, but at the end of the day, what matters is winning.”

While he acknowledges the challenges Indian football faces, including the need for better refereeing standards, Benali remains optimistic.

“Football is about learning and improving. Everyone, from the players to the referees, needs experience. The most important thing is to keep pushing forward,” he added.

A call to action

In closing, Benali reiterated his appeal to the fans, not just of NorthEast United FC but across the country.

"Respect the game, respect the players, respect the people working in football," he said, stressing the value of showing up for the team. 

"Come to the stadiums, because that’s where football truly lives," Benali added, calling for fans to be present, especially during challenging moments for the team.

Reflecting on his experiences in India, Benali shared his appreciation for the country’s passionate fanbase. 

"In India, I’ve seen full stadiums, and I hope that continues," he said.

"The beauty of football is its unpredictability. You never know what will happen, and that’s the magic of the game," Benali remarked, highlighting the sport’s ability to surprise and unite fans regardless of the outcome.

With Juan Pedro Benali at the helm, NorthEast United FC is on an upward trajectory.

The only thing missing, according to the coach, is a stadium packed with fans ready to rally behind their team.