Goa: It has been quite a roller coaster journey for the FC Goa since the inaugural season of the Indian Super League (ISL) back in 2014. Things were different then as living Brazilian legend Zico was at the helm. Under his regime then Gaurs made the 2014 semifinals before reaching the finals the following year losing to Chennaiyin FC on the title.
Fast forward to three years in 2017. The Gaurs came out with a new look with Sergio Lobera as head coach. The Spaniard brought in players like Coro, Manuel Lanzarote, Mourtada Fall and a midfield general namely Edu Bedia. In 2020, things have changed once again on the west coast of the country as the big names are no more a part of the club but have found a loyal soldier in Bedia.
“We have been a good team in the last few years in the ISL, but have not won the trophy eventually,” the 31-year-old told Sportslight Media in an exclusive interaction. “It is something we will work hard this season, it is important we have set it as our goal.”
Born in Santander, Spain, Bedia broke into the circuit from Racing Santander youth system. The central midfielder has played for teams like Barcelona B, Hercules, 1860 Munich and Real Zaragoza before shifting base to Goa. He has also played for Spain’s U-20 and U-21 teams in 2009 and is a prolific game-maker with a killer eye for passing and can also play as a defensive blocker.
Bedia was also the captain of the side when they won the Super Cup in 2019 at Kalinga Stadium beating Chennaiyin FC 2-1 in the final. “I have very good moments with FC Goa, one of the best was the Super Cup title, but I think the best moment is yet to come.” Incidentally, that is the only silverware in the Gaurs cabinet.
Known for his supplying ability in the midfield, Bedia has the sweetest touches of a Spanish footballer. When asked about Goa’s latest Spanish recruits — Igor Angulo and Jorge Ortiz and also new coach Juan Ferrado, Bedia confidently said, “I think having foreign players of same nationality is an advantage, because we understand each other better and we play the same style of football.”
With all his best mates finding new destinations for the upcoming season, Bedia decided to stay back. Asked the reason for him to stay back, Bedia was candid in his reply. “This is football. Players go and players come. I think the players who have come to the team this year are quite good and suit our style of play. I am delighted in Goa, both on and off the field.”
“The club has treated me pretty well since I have arrived here and would like to stay here for a long time,” he added. FC Goa will feature in the AFC Champions League this season owing to their table-top finish and also winning the ISL League Winners’ shield under Lobera.
“I think we have a team who can give good account of themselves in the AFC Champions League and want to show Indian Football in good light. I am thrilled to be the part of this competition this year. And we have to work throughout the season to re-appear in the Champions League next season,” he said.
With City football Group as Mumbai City FC’s new sponsor, they have managed to spend a hefty amount of money on players like Hugo Boumous, Fall (both ex-FC Goa), Bartholomew Ogbeche this season. Speaking on the big splurge of money, Bedia said, “I think Mumbai with all the money they have spent, if they doesn’t win every game, will be considered to be a failure for them.”
He even added, “ATK-Mohun Bagan, Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC are the teams to watchout for this season.”
Rightly said, Mumbai City will all the money they have spent, will not be able garner the passion & fan support as with FC GOA, where the football game runs in the blood of Goans & the players are household names.. Edu Bedia & team mates need to keep their cool & play the Tiki Taka at mid field & sudden attack upfront. FC GOA will be at the top this time too.