Mohun Bagan manager Antonio Habas has hinted that the Indian Super League (ISL) final will most likely be his swansong casting a bittersweet light on the upcoming finale. Habas, known for his fiery passion and tactical prowess, has left an indelible mark on the league, etching his name in ISL history.

"This is the last phase of my managerial career, and these are the last moments in my coaching career," he said on Friday, a day before the all-important ISL 2024 final.

"It’s a good time for me because I have managed the Bolivia national team, then managed in La Liga and then in South Africa and then the last 10 years I’ve managed in India. I’m very happy and proud of my management in India," he added during the pre-match press conference.

If Habas does indeed choose to step away from coaching after ISL 2024, it will mark the end of a remarkable era, a journey that has redefined success in the league.

Habas, who was called back mid-season to revive the Mariners' faltering campaign under former boss Juan Ferrando, has galvanised his team like never before and led them to the shield title and the top of the ISL 2023-24 season points table.

Habas' impact on the ISL is unparalleled. He stands alone as the only coach to have reached four ISL finals, a testament to his exceptional leadership and tactical acumen.

"I will always push for one thing, which is to complete the circle. We can only complete this by winning the last match. We have the opportunity to do so tomorrow, and evidently, the idea to complete the circle is the most important thing," he added.

The upcoming final between Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City promises to be emotional for Habas and his fans. It's an opportunity for his supporters to witness the final chapter of a coaching giant who has enthralled audiences with his brand of attacking football.

“I remember playing another final in Mumbai and another in Goa. But it’s different now; it’s in our house. We have our supporters with us and that is important.”

Whether he can add another ISL title to his illustrious career remains to be seen.