Marco Materazzi has been re-appointed to lead Chennaiyin FC as their head coach going into the second edition of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL). The franchise from southern India is owned by Abhishek Bachchan, Vita Dani and MS Dhoni.

Materazzi enjoyed a fairly successful spell in the player-coach role leading Chennaiyin to the semi-finals, where they lost narrowly to Kerala Blasters FC. Chennaiyin FC ended the league phase at the top of the table with 23 points in the 14 matches. The Italian coach secured seven victories from 16 games in the tournament, higher than any other team in the first edition of the ISL.

Even in the semi-finals his side fought back from a three-goal deficit from the first leg only to be outdone by a late goal in second-half extra time. As a player the former Italian international made seven appearances in the ISL, with one assist and 14 successful tackles to his credit.

"I am very happy to continue with Chennaiyin FC for another season. Despite starting our preparations late last season we still managed to be one of the best performing franchises of the ISL. It was only possible thanks to the support I got from the owners, management, staff, players and the fans of Chennaiyin FC. I am already looking forward to the second season and we are working very hard to build a strong squad. All throughout my playing career I have always aimed to be first so of course the goal for the second season will be to become champions,” said Materazzi.

Chennaiyin FC CEO Ashish Shah was also happy to have the World Cup winner back at the helm. “We are delighted to have retained Marco as our manager for the second season. Our performances were excellent under his guidance last season and we aim to do even better this time. Marco was inspirational both on and off the pitch, bringing the best out of both the domestic and foreign players. We look forward to a successful second season,” he exclaimed.