Until two months ago, Andre Santos was doing duty for Flamengo, rubbing shoulders with the best Brazilian players. But the former Arsenal left-back is happy the way his stint at Indian Super League (ISL) has taken off with FC Goa and is all praise for his team-mates and legendary coach Zico.
In an exclusive interview with IBNLive Sports, Santos considers ISL a great opportunity for foreign players to help develop football in India and the younger generation can learn a lot while playing in the tournament.
How has been your experience in the Indian Super League in general and with your club FC Goa?
It's been wonderful so far. The organisation is amazing and FC Goa and ISL are doing an amazing job. The tournament is also doing well. It is really impressive how all the foreign players and Indian players are working and playing together as a team.
You have earlier played in one of the biggest league in the world - the EPL. What made you join the ISL?
The reason I joined the Indian Super League is because I got an invitation from the legend Zico and I also wanted to know India and help the development of football in India. It is surely a great opportunity.
You have played for Arsenal and several clubs before. Did you consult anyone before signing for the ISL. Your team-mate Robert Pires consulted his former coach at Arsenal, Arsene Wenger - did you talk to him as well?
No, I didn't consult Wenger because I believed in Zico's words and came here. He told me that he is coming to India for a new project and he wanted me to be a part of it. So I came and I am very happy that I made a right choice.
What edge does Zico as FC Goa coach brings in comparison to other teams?
Zico is a legend. He is one of the very best, both as a player and as a coach. We are lucky to be able to be coached by Zico. As far as edge is concerned, it all depends on what happens on the pitch and we as a team are hoping to perform well out in the middle.
What are Zico's pep talks, like before the match day and during training?
He always tries to teach us the best way to play the game and explains to us about how the opposing team might play. [He] tries to make it easy for us on the field. Because it gets difficult to listen while we are playing, so he gives us all the information before we get on the field and start playing. He also expects and demands our very best performance. He is an inspiration and mentor to us.
What are your views about the Indian players in the team?
They all are good talented players and very good human beings. I really hope that while we are here, the young players can learn and be better at their game and together we can achieve the goals we have set for ourselves.
What is the benchmark FC Goa striving for this season and do you think the team can go all the way and win the trophy on December 20?
We have been playing well and creating opportunities. Yes, we are a great team and have the potential to be the very best.
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