Excited to work with Ferrando this season: FC Goa's Romario

Romario, who clinched I-League (second-tier competition) gold medals with Chennai City FC and Mohun Bagan in the last couple of years, will fight for top honours in the Indian Super League and AFC Champions League with his FC Goa teammates this season.

“I am really excited. I am eager to learn and perform my best for the team in both ISL and AFC CL,” Chennai-based Romario told DT Next during an e-mail conversation. At FC Goa, there is a massive Spanish influence as head coach Juan Ferrando and five of the six foreigners in the squad are from the Iberian nation.

Having had a taste of the Spanish style of football during his stints at Chennai City and Mohun Bagan, the 24-year-old is optimistic about quickly adjusting to Ferrando’s philosophy. “Even when I was at CCFC, most of the overseas players were from Spain. Therefore, I found it easier when I played for Mohun Bagan last year. FC Goa also has a similar style, which is attacking in nature. So, I feel I can adapt to it soon,” he explained.

ISL 2019-20 ‘League Winners’ Shield holder FC Goa was one of the first teams to begin preparations for the seventh edition. Ahead of the pre-season, manager Ferrando was in constant touch with his squad members virtually.

On how the conversations went about, Romario said: “Before arriving in Goa, we had a couple of online sessions with the head coach. But, I haven’t interacted with him personally yet. In an interview, he said that he wants the whole of Asia to talk about the club. I admired his confidence and felt motivated hearing that. I am excited to train under Juan.”