FC Goa has been one of the most successful clubs in the Indian footballing circuit since 2014. They have finished Indian Super League (ISL) runners-up twice, won the Super Cup in 2019 and has also won the ISL Winners’ Shied last year after they topped the group stage. It has also led them to qualify for the AFC Champions League this season. One of the reasons for such consistency was Brazilian legend Zico and Spanish Sergio Lobera, who were the coaches during the time and ofcourse the players.
However, this upcoming season will be different. Not because of the Coronavirus pandemic which has led the organisers to hold the entire tournament in Goa behind closed doors but also the sea of changes that the side has gone through.
Many of their stars have left the Gaurs family but they have signed some big names. With a new coach on the block in Juan Ferrando, FC Goa can be a sure threat this season due to the home advantage and also the style of football they play. There are several players in every area we all have to look for this season.
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Players to watch out for
Mohammad Nawaz: The 20-year goalkeeper has been a huge prospect for the club and the country. He has been like a wall for Goa with prolific performance throughout last season. With AFC Champions League around the corner, Nawaz is one to watch out for.
Brandon Fernandez: A player who is termed as the Bruno Fernandes of Indian football. A terrific passer, a set-piece expert and a natural No.10. He has been a revelation for Goa and for Indian football. With big guns already out for new adventure, Brandon can play the Bruno role for the Gaurs this season.
Ivan Gonzalez: He has been a replacement for Mourtada Fall and for that reason the team has high expectations from him. The former Real Madrid academy product is 6′ ft tall and has a naturally gifted body. Gonzalez can be a key leader in the Gaurs’ defence this season.
Jorge Ortiz: Can play both as a winger and also in the middle, Ortiz can be a trump card for the Gaurs this season. The former Atletico Madrid B team player has blistering speed and can get important crosses for the forwards.
Edu Bedia: Captain, leader, legend for FC Goa. He has been with the side since 2017. Bedia can play the Andres Iniesta role in the midfield and provides important interceptions and through balls. He will be a central feature for FC Goa due to his class and experience.
Igor Angulo: A direct replacement of Ferran Corominas. Igor has been signed to produce the mammoth goal-scoring tally Coro did for Goa in the last three ISL season. The 36-year-old Spaniard can play in the wings and also in the middle, no doubt he will be FC Goa’s talisman this season.
Junior Players
The likes of Phrangki Buam, Seriton Fernandes, Alexander Romario, Saviour Gama are the ones to watch out for this season.
Coach
Juan Ferrando, the 39-year-old Spaniard will be at the FC Goa helm this season. Having experienced coaching in Spain, Greece, Moldova and many more, Ferrando will have a huge task at hand keeping in mind the legacy that Zico and Lobera have created. The AFC Champions League is also there in the back of his mind.
FC Goa will kick start their season on November 22 against former ISL champions Bengaluru FC.
