If not FC Goa, I would consider Kerala Blasters, says Coro
JOEL ANDRADE
PANAJI
FC Goa’s Ferran Corominas has set the Indian Super League ablaze with his attacking prowess and has scored 32 goals till date. On the the sidelines of a programme organised by Fomento Media at its St Inez premises, Coro speaks about the toughest team to beat, the team he could sign next if not for FC Goa and the most memorable goal of his career.
Excerpts of a chat:
TG: Which according to you is the toughest team to beat in this season of ISL?
Coro: Although all teams are well balanced, Jamshedpur is the toughest team to play as they are tactically well positioned. Every time I go on the pitch, I give my 100 per cent, but every game is completely different and you have to create chances to score goals.
TG: If not for FC Goa, which is the other team you would consider joining in the ISL?
Coro: I would prefer Kerala Blasters for its passionate fan base. Their stadium, supporters, facilities, squad, and everything is fantastic. Bangalore, ATK and Jamshedpur have great setups too and are always fighting for the top spots. Life in those cities could be good but I’m very happy with life in Goa. The only thing on my mind right now is to bring the ISL trophy home. I think this year is the year.”
TG: Are you happy with your decision to play in India?
Coro: Before plying my trade in India, I did a background check of the league and two years down the line, am happy to have made the decision to join FC Goa. Before coming to India, I called some of my colleagues to find out about the quality of football in India. And to be honest, when I came here, I was surprised by the condition of the stadiums, the fantastic fans and most definitely, the quality of Indian players which is improving at a rapid pace. Brandon and Princeton have a bright future ahead of them provided they work hard and are open to playing overseas.
TG: How different do you feel playing on home turf at Fatorda?
Coro: I think the Fatorda Fortress presents one of the best experiences for us in the league. The supporters are amazing, the stadium is almost full for every match and fans cheer us throughout the 90 minutes and that helps us.
TG: Which is the one goal in your career that you will never forget?
Coro: The last-minute goal against Real Sociedad in the Spanish League in 2006 is most memorable as it helped my team, Espanyol save relegation. If the team had to be relegated, it would be very bad as the new stadium of the club was under construction and it would probably not go ahead with that project.
THE GOA CONNECT
On choice of Goan food
Foreign recruits, including Coro, don’t enjoy spicy foods and it is only Edu Bedia who can stomach pungent Goan dishes. Among other dishes, Prawn Curry has been a favourite of Moroccan import Hugo Boumous.
On eating out
Several foreign players and majority of the domestic players like the street food at Miramar circle. The spot is in close proximity to Dona Paula where the players are housed.
On their free time
Coro prefers to spend time with his family which is down in Goa. Other players have activities planned around the campus.
On favourite Goa’s beaches
Foreign players love Goa’s coastline. Ashvem Beach, for its quiet and serene view was Hugo Boumous’ favourite.
The language barrier
For Spainard, Konkani language is like Greek to Goans. Coro can understand some portions of English conversations but is clueless about the mother tongue of the team he plays for. Back in the dressing room, he is familiar with the frequently used Konkani word ‘mure’.
If FC Goa meets Bengaluru FC again
Coro sounds optimistic. We paid the price of over-confidence and learnt out lessons. The team is confident of beating them if there is a clash again.
