Monrovia – As the new Head Coach of the Liberia national football team, Mario Marinica has hit the ground running as part of his two-year contract, and there are high expectations from Liberians for him, especially with his rich profile and vast experience in the sector. The Romanian football manager and former player, now Head Coach of the Senior National Team of Liberia, has so far made two key decisions ahead of Liberia’s encounter with Djibouti late next month.
By: Christopher C Walker 0777898224/0886723075 [email protected]
Coach Mario has already appointed two local coaches, Kelvin Sebwe and Christopher Wesseh, to assist him on the local scene. Additionally, on Saturday, he officially released a list of thirty local-based players as part of preparations for his first crucial debut encounter in March 2024.
Speaking on Intel Sports, Coach Marinica said he will need a more dynamic approach to the game rather than a deliberate one, which he has observed from the local talents so far. “I have noticed lots of talent in the country, but also slowness. Even though I don’t have problems with passing the ball around, the aim of the game is to score goals and to win the match,” he added.
As part of his plans, the UEFA Pro license coach said he will give massive chances to local players, as he did in Malawi. However, he encouraged local talents to be mentally fit to elevate their game. Simultaneously, he urged foreign-based players to demonstrate extreme quality over local players and to give their 100% to the national team when called upon, avoiding excuses. “There will be competition, and the doors are open to everyone,” he noted.
He disclosed that he is monitoring 40 foreign-based players, which he noted is a challenge, especially considering his past experience with smaller countries facing problems. Nevertheless, he and his team will work on finding the best solutions possible.
“Young players are important, and experienced players are also needed. We need players who are hungry for success. As such, we will be looking at a 50/50 balance,” he further explained.
Regarding his style of play, Coach Mario described it as “Fast and Very Fast”. He emphasized the need for a dynamic approach, quick transitioning in attacks and defense, taking scoring opportunities, and maintaining compactness once they lose the ball.
Regarding his philosophy, he outlined five elements: Technical, Tactical, Physical, Mental, and Social, which he will base his decisions on for the betterment of the team and the country in general. Placing more emphasis on the social aspect, he stated that there will be three sub-components under his social philosophy, where final determinations will be made.
“I will need to know the players’ lifestyle, their behavior. I will have to ask myself hard questions like, do they come to the senior National Team to give their 100% or for a stroll in the park?” he added. He emphasized the need for foreign-based players who will come to give their full commitment to the team and the country, void of excuses.
Additionally, the integration of players with staff and colleagues during training and practice sessions, including players’ integration into matches and match preparations, will also be keenly observed under the social component of his philosophy respectively.
“In particular, I will need players who are fast, energetic, educated, and consistent in a match, players who will execute tactics correctly,” he emphasized.
Coach Marinica noted that the benchmark from his team has been set up to ensure that the best players fit in. He was also quick to add that he has not experienced outside interference in his job and would welcome recommendations, especially on player scouting. However, he and his technical team will always have the final and professional say and will make the right decisions.