BLURB
The Brazilian believes it is imperative he continues to adapt to different games in varied styles as rival coaches decrypt his role for Zico's men, whilst saying he is playing to win the title, not just for himself but for his deserving supporters from Goa
Some may believe that an inaugural expedition into the Indian Super League (ISL) may be taxing for a 36-year-old, but Leo Moura has so far proved that is far from the point.
The Brazilian midfielder who has played in all of his team's four games from which they have garnered seven points, has been instrumental in not just creating opportunities for his attackers to latch onto, but getting back in time to shunt out opposition shots at goal.
Moura believes it is imperative he continues to adapt to different games in varied styles as rival coaches decrypt his role for Zico's men, whilst opining he is playing to win the title, not just for himself but for his deserving supporters from Goa.
"I came to help FC Goa become champions, even as the final of the ISL will be held in Goa. These people of Goa deserve this title," the Brazilian midfield general was quoted as saying on goal.com while elucidating his personal thoughts on the ISL.
Quizzed if he needs to adjust his approach to the ISL, taking into account the physicality of the match against Atletico de Kolkata, where the Blues drew out a tight fixture, Moura explained, "Marking in each game will become more difficult because the coaches already know how I play. So, on the pitch, I have to use creativity to get out of the marking and tackles of the opponents and help my team."
Having played most of his career for the Brazilian club Flamengo, the stalwart was quizzed on how his relationship with coach Zico is helping him get the best out of his playing position. "In addition to being an idol of world football, Zico is a coach who has has been better every day and has passed me his experience of already having played in that position. He has requested everyone to get closer to the goal and finishing off chances," revealed the 36-year-old.
In addition to the advice passed on by the Brazilian legend, Moura was quizzed as to how he adapted his body to the pressures of biweekly football, to which he replied, "Even though it is a bit tiring, I am used to this schedule as in Brazil, as well as the league games are in this form. But I'm properly prepared now."
"Because I am a creative player and technician, it is normal that sometimes the play in midfield passes by me, but it happens naturally. My goal is to create chances for attackers," commented the lean Brazilian, on his distributions and adjustments to midfield.
Many of FC Goa's foreign recruits, seven out ot ten including Moura and World Cup winner Lucio, are Brazilian and when put forward whether the presence of the Samba stars has helped the him settle down well, one-time Brazil capped Moura expounded, "Even though most of the players in the FC Goa contingent are Brazilian, we are here to help and also be helped by the companions from all over India and the world. We are a team, all together!"
Quizzed on who his best teammates in Brazilian football have been, Moura swiftly answered, "Romário and Ronaldinho Gaúcho."
"The quality of football in ISL is good and at a very strong level. Every year that goes by, it will evolve and become increasingly competitive. It has been a very positive experience and I believe that with time, the league can become a longer championship. The organization is being optimal," concluded a very happy Moura, on the level of football in the ISL and also offering his two bits on how the league can be a better exposition of football talent in India.
