For generations of East Bengal supporters, the wait seemed endless. One of India’s most storied football clubs had gone 22 years without a national league title, carrying the weight of expectation and history with every passing season. That changed under Oscar Bruzon, the Spanish coach who guided the Red and Gold Brigade to their maiden Indian Super League crown, ending a drought that had become one of the biggest talking points in Indian football.

The triumph elevated Bruzon’s standing as one of the most successful coaches working in South Asian football. Having managed across Spain, India, Bangladesh and the Maldives, the Galician tactician has built a reputation for fostering winning cultures and strong team identities. In this interview with News India Arena, Bruzon reflects on East Bengal’s historic title-winning campaign, the mentality that transformed the club into champions, and shares his views on the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the future of the game.

Champion Mindset?

Ending East Bengal’s 22-year wait required much more than footballing quality, according to Bruzon. The key was changing the team’s relationship with pressure.

“The biggest change was shifting from ‘we cannot lose’ to ‘we are prepared to win’,” he said.

Daily competitive habits, game-specific training sessions, and a focus on process over outcome helped players build confidence through evidence rather than emotion.

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Career highlight?

Bruzon ranks the ISL triumph among the greatest achievements of his coaching career. Beyond the trophy, it was the emotional significance that made it special.

“The fans had waited 22 years for this moment. Being able to deliver that joy to such a passionate fanbase is something I will always cherish,” he said.

Borja’s moment?

The East Bengal coach was delighted to see fellow Galician and former Celta de Vigo academy product Borja Iglesias earn a World Cup call-up. Bruzon praised the striker’s development into a complete forward, highlighting his work rate, link-up play and continuous improvement as qualities young footballers should emulate.

Italy’s challenge?

Comparing Italy’s 2006 World Cup-winning side with the present day, Bruzon believes continuity and identity have been lost.

“The 2006 team had a settled core, strong leadership and a clear footballing identity. Those elements are harder to see today,” he observed.

Future blueprint?

Asked what Italy could learn from Spain, Germany and France, Bruzon pointed to long-term planning and strong academy structures. He believes sustainable success comes from a unified football philosophy stretching from youth teams to the senior national side.

Looking ahead to the World Cup, Germany under Julian Nagelsmann is the team he is most eager to watch. Bruzon believes football’s future lies in tactical flexibility, intelligent squad management and adaptability — qualities he expects will define the next generation of elite coaches.

By Joe Williams