Carles Martinez Novell (40) stands out as an emerging Spanish coach on the global football scene. His career commenced in youth development roles at clubs such as Granollers, Espanyol, Barcelona, Al-Rayyan, and even the Kuwait U-20 national team, before he took on the role of assistant to Philippe Montanier at Toulouse. Now in his second season as head coach, he reflects on his journey.
Carles Martinez Novell: “Things are going quite well. As this is my second season here, I’m beginning to familiarise myself with everything more thoroughly. It’s true that there have been some changes in the squad since last season; however, as I always mention, it’s exciting to work with new players, develop fresh strategies, and learn from the experiences we had last year.”
“Quite a few players have returned from last season, which is beneficial. This season has involved some different challenges. Initially, we perhaps did not perform as well in terms of results, but I felt positive about our gameplay; we showed competitiveness and had an underlying belief that we could achieve more than what the scoreboard indicated.”
“From the eighth match onwards, we experienced a solid run, winning six out of eight games, which was a turning point. Since then, we’ve focused on continual growth and improvement.”
“Last month brought some struggles in terms of results, but that’s part of the learning process. We’ve been active in the transfer market, there have been numerous injuries, and facing such challenges is part of our role. Now, we’re hopeful that the final matches of the season will see us finish strongly.”
FS: What are Toulouse’s medium-term goals? Is Europe on the agenda?
CMN: “Absolutely, the club aims to develop and grow—that’s our target. The club was in Ligue 2 when RedBird acquired it, and back then, it had the ambition to return to the top division, where we are now. The goal is to compete for titles when possible. Over the last two seasons, we’ve achieved that, winning the French Cup and participating in Europe last year. Winning the cup was somewhat unexpected, but I believe we deserved it.”
“Now, our desire is to continue this trajectory, striving to be competitive, maintaining stability, and working diligently. Ideally, we want to challenge for European spots to re-enter the continental competition.”
FS: Toulouse, under Damien Comolli’s tenure, is well-regarded for its focus on data and analytics. How does this influence daily team management and the recruitment process?
CMN: “Indeed, as you’ve pointed out, there are two key aspects. The first involves evaluating our performance, not only concerning results, goals scored, or conceded. It’s also about what the data reveals regarding our performance—are we meeting our objectives? Are we generating adequate expected goals (xG)? Are we capable of fulfilling our aims qualitatively in both attack and defence?”
“Ultimately, this approach not only helps assess our results relative to external perceptions, but it also encourages a more objective outlook. In terms of recruitment, we have a defined strategy on how and where to scout talent. My responsibility is to optimise the performance of the players we acquire, as any improvement from them reflects positively on the team.”
FS: Does this data-driven perspective conflict with your vision or that of your coaching staff?
CMN: “Not at all; I’m very receptive to listening and reflecting. Last year, during tougher times, it highlighted areas where we needed to improve. When we win, data can inform us about our strengths and reveal areas where even victory requires further enhancement. I value having objective feedback on our progress, what we can improve, and what we are executing well.”
“From this standpoint, my role is to translate that understanding onto the pitch, tuning into players’ feelings, and recognising when they are content or under pressure. There’s a human aspect to management that’s crucial but, as I often express, it’s about balancing data with the passion and humanity that exists within the team.”
FS: Discussing Comolli, who has an impressive background with clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Tottenham, how does his experience shape the club’s transfer strategy and overall vision?
CMN: “Without a doubt, he is a pivotal figure—perhaps the most influential at the club. He’s been fundamental to its development since the acquisition, and I enjoy listening to and learning from those with extensive experience. At the same time, I believe I can channel this information effectively within my role as head coach.”
“We share a fantastic working relationship. I appreciate his insights, and I value the wisdom he brings from his high-level experience, which vastly exceeds my own to date.”
FS: Can you elaborate on the collaboration required to achieve objectives and how you experience it within the club?
CMN: “We have an open line of communication; he can always come to my office or call me, and vice versa. We also have weekly meetings where we cover important team matters, including improvements and aspects related to the club’s structure. It’s a comprehensive partnership that works exceptionally well.”
FS: Do you believe you have successfully instilled your philosophy at Toulouse and within Ligue 1, or is this a work in progress?
CMN: “I firmly believe that football revolves around individuals and players. Last season, we witnessed significant growth from start to finish. I genuinely think we are further along this year; however, integrating new players means we must ensure they find comfort and ways to thrive on the pitch, which is essential to our performance.
“I have my beliefs about football, and I embrace them, but I also must recognise the players’ capabilities to create a harmonious balance between my vision and their potential. Everyone can grow, but it is important to assess whether a player can thrive in our system. When you have a squad of 11 players feeling at ease, performance typically flourishes.”
FS: The coaching landscape in Ligue 1 features many foreign managers. Do you think it is a more appealing destination than it has been in the past?
CMN: “I genuinely have a fondness for this league; it’s not merely a statement because I’m here. Ligue 1 is incredibly attractive, brimming with talent and promising young players. Matches are fiercely contested, making it challenging for any team to secure wins, even the top sides. This competitive nature is reflected even in the Champions League. French football offers numerous prospects for young players and is also welcoming to international coaches who wish to share their insights.”
FS: You mentioned the calibre of Ligue 1. What’s your take on Cristiano Ronaldo’s assertion that the Saudi Pro League surpasses the French league? Having experience in Qatar and Kuwait, how do you gauge Ligue 1’s standing?
CMN: “I avoid commenting on leagues I haven’t experienced. I’ve never worked in the Saudi league, so I can’t provide an opinion on that; however, Ligue 1 is a formidable league. Each time we meet foreign clubs, they often struggle to secure victories against us, clearly indicating our strength. Look at the number of players transitioning from Ligue 1 to leagues worldwide—there’s no denying its potential.
“Whether it is superior to other leagues is a topic I would prefer to sidestep.”
FS: Do you believe the presence of a club with PSG’s financial clout positively impacts Ligue 1?
CMN: “That’s the nature of the game. I often express my hope that teams like OM (Marseille) will strengthen and that Monaco continues to invest in young talent. Naturally, I’d prefer a more competitive title race but recognise how tough it is for PSG to win their matches. Observing this dynamic highlights the fierce competition for European spots. Ligue 1 showcases a balance in that respect.
“At present, we sit mid-table, not far from European contention and yet not distanced from relegation, which underscores the competitiveness and quality within the league. However, I wish for a greater level of equality akin to the Premier League, where financial disparity is less pronounced, but I’m not in a position to demand that.”
FS: You dedicated five seasons to training at Espanyol’s academy. What are your thoughts regarding the inclusion of home-grown talents like goalkeeper Joan Garcia and captain Javi Puado in the team?
CMN: “I consistently express the desire for more home-grown talents to feature. I’ve trained several exceptional cohorts at Espanyol, and I believe that once given the opportunities, young players will seize them.
“The same is true for Joan, as well as Angel Fortuno, the backup keeper, who I believe could match the first-choice keeper’s caliber if given the chance. The same applies to Puado and Nico Melamed, or players like Arnau Puigmal, now at Almeria, all of whom have the potential to thrive in Espanyol’s first team.
“I’m convinced that if young players are afforded the opportunity, they will shine since Espanyol’s academy maintains a high standard. Just one example is Jofre, whom I coached at the U13 level; his development is evident, and those who excel eventually secure playing time. That’s just the way it is.”
FS: You also coached at Barcelona’s youth academy. What do you think has contributed to La Masia’s success, producing talented players like Marc Casado, Pau Cubarsi, Gavi, Lamine Yamal, and Fermin Lopez recently?
CMN: “At Barca, similar to Espanyol, there is a very defined playing philosophy. As (Mikel) Arteta recently pointed out, even when discussing a historic La Masia, it remains true: the internal competitiveness is fostered, encouraging players to progress through the ranks in a positive, aspiring manner.
“During every training session, every activity, players are encouraged to perform at their best and enjoy the process of improvement. From a young age, they are taught the necessity of excellence and enjoyment in their development.
“This establishment of high expectations means that by the time they reach the first team, they are well-equipped to handle pressure. Moreover, when combined with undeniable talent, this foundation yields phenomenal results.”
FS: Speaking of Barcelona, you once coached their youngsters and are now overseeing their first team. Considering the club’s overarching philosophy, do you see youth players and professionals as fundamentally similar?
CMN: “Throughout my coaching career, my philosophy has always prioritised a player’s desire to excel, irrespective of their age or experience when they enter training or a match. That doesn’t guarantee success, but one must always strive. I constantly motivate my players to pursue their ambitions wholeheartedly.
“The challenge arises when a player lacks motivation—that’s the crux. I don’t see significant differences between youth and first-team players. Every player should train while continuously learning and remaining competitive.
“This is the reality in all professional teams. While variations exist depending on clubs or their status, the treatment of a youth player is different from an adult in certain aspects. A 14-year-old’s challenges differ vastly from those of a 25-year-old professional, not to mention the significance of having a professional contract.
“There are numerous factors at play, but ultimately, these individuals share a common goal: to grow. I believe there’s little distinction between how training is approached in professional versus youth football—at least that’s the impression I hold.”
FS: When you were in Spain, Ousmane Dembele arrived at Barcelona and is currently showcasing incredible form. What differences have you perceived since then?
CMN: “Football thrives on confidence. We can overlay tactics and strategies, but when a player possesses confidence and happiness, everything falls into place. The precise through ball executes seamlessly; the shot into the top corner finds its mark.
“Conversely, a player grappling with self-doubt may delay a key movement, resulting in a lost opportunity. Dembele has consistently impressed me as an outstanding player. Nowadays, he’s scoring goals, yet prior to this, he excelled at creating space for his teammates.
“Currently, he continues to do so—he just happens to be an effective scorer as well. When a player displays that level of all-roundedness, they become exceedingly difficult to contain.”
FS: Having faced Kylian Mbappe multiple times, what challenges does he present for a coach? How can your team prepare to counter his threat, or at least contain him?
CMN: “In each match, we analyse our opponents and anticipate potential challenges. When dealing with exceptional talents like Mbappe or Dembele, players are acutely aware of their capabilities and what must be done to mitigate them. However, their immense talent remains constant.
“Maintaining focus is crucial; players must always engage, striving to neutralise these star qualities. Mbappe can create an illusion of disengagement before suddenly springing into action and striking the ball into the net. Containing such talent is challenging, as his ability to find space and strike quickly is what makes him elite.
“If we knew definitively how to stop those players, they likely wouldn’t be considered among the best globally.”
FS: What’s your assessment of Cristian Casseres, who is now in his second season with Toulouse?
CMN: “I’m genuinely pleased with his progress. He’s developing consistently, becoming more confident in his abilities, and his performance levels are on the rise.
“I’m thrilled with how well he has adapted since moving from the MLS, where the style of play differs. He consistently gives his all on the pitch and demonstrates unwavering commitment. While he might have good days and off days, he remains competitive and dedicated.”
FS: Finally, regarding your player Charlie Creswell, do you believe he has the potential to become a regular member of the England national team?
CMN: “We’re certainly progressing in that direction. He’s currently with the U21s, having joined us from Leeds, and he’s been a key player, showing signs of consistent growth and ambition.
“The most critical factor is a player’s desire to improve and develop. If he earns a call-up to the senior squad, that represents a tremendous achievement, as it signifies we’re on the right path and—most importantly—that the player is thriving, which is what matters most.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
