In the inaugural season, FC Goa almost go it right, but their ISL dream run was cut short in the semi-finals. A new season now awaits the Gaurs. A season of high expectations. Under head coach Zico, the Goan ISL outfit is all set on a mission to bring the coveted trophy to Goa. FC Goa Co-owner and Dempo Group chairman Shrinivas Dempo is optimistic of his team's title chances and speaks his mind when Sudhakar Shanbhag caught up with him.
Excerpts
Q. How do you reflect on the ISL season gone by for FC Goa? Do you subscribe to the
views that ISL has come as a breath of fresh air for Indian football?
Our vision and dream for FC Goa when we decided to buy the team, is and will continue to be that we want to see the ‘next generation’ of football in India. This is what brought us all together to create this team. As to what ISL does for Indian football is really to bring it as close to International
quality football as possible. Our players have the opportunity to play with International footballers and be coached by a legendary footballer. The combination is unparalleled. Nothing could be better for me than to be able to be part of the development of the sport which every Goan is so passionate about.
Q. Zico says he has taken upon himself to see that FC Goa goes the distance this time. How confident you think he is this season?
Indeed he has. This season, Zico has a team of his choice and he has ensured that the team is well prepared. As you know, FC Goa did very well at the pre-season training in Dubai and we are all confident that the team will continue to play with enthusiasm and passion. They will give it their everything and play to win!
Q. When ISL was launched in 2014, it was relatively an unknown entity for most. Do you think most club owners, including you, have come to understand the dynamics of this league now?
Yes we do. In the overall analysis we believe that this league is only beneficial - both to
our Indian players and to the sport.
Q. How do you compare your own baby DEMPO SC with FC GOA, who you co-own, given the fact that both operate on different platforms?
I’m delighted to be a part of both leagues in football and I believe that these platforms offer us the opportunity to develop the sport and see rising stars that will one day attain global status. You cannot compare the leagues in their current form.
Q. Coming back to ISL 2, how excited are you personally to watch the opening game against Delhi Dynamos? The team plays three on the trot at home..so it's advantage FC Goa?
Every match is exciting. The ones we play at home are always better because the stadium is full, the fans are engaged and the team gets to play to the crowd. I am happy that ISL 2 is around the corner and our first home game is but a few days away. As I said before, we are well prepared and we will play to win!
Q. Do you believe ISL teams should be training in India to cut down on the cost factor and secondly it's a tournament that is played only in India. So don't you think foreigners would be better placed if they get acclimatised to Indian weather?
Dubai was selected as our training location for two reasons. First: the weather is similar to that of Goa. Second: The local clubs are extremely good and it gave our boys the opportunity to play seasoned football competitively while training.
Q. Congratulations on roping in an experienced pro in Sukhvinder Singh as your new CEO. How does FC Goa plan to work with him?
In looking for a CEO our aim was to have FC Goa become a professionally managed club in all aspects that we operate in; be it developing the elite team, grassroot development, marketing and media and most importantly fan development. In Sukhvinder we have a seasoned football professional that we believe is right for the job.
Q. Last but not the least...can we positively expect that ISL trophy will remain in Goa this season with the Gaurs crowned new champions come December 20?
Bringing home the Trophy is a fervent hope. With the team well prepared combined with the support of our fans, we will play to be champions this year.
