A mesmerizing footballer in his prime, Zico has perhaps been the star attraction of the Indian Super League. The Brazilian has been a household name in Goa, whilst leading FC Goa’s coaching contingent. Zico, who starred in the all famous Brazilian team alongside the famous Socrates and Falcao, has also plied his trade as a manager in Japan, Russia and Iraq before turning eye to a much more challenging frontier, India. Although Zico is forever etched into Brazilian folklore of football, the 61 year old is also a pious and reasonable manager. Even after never lifting the coveted trophy of World Cup, Zico remains one of the best footballers that Brazil has ever produced.
TheHardTackle’s Joseph Solomon caught up with Zico, and interacted about his experiences so far.
Joseph: Congratulations on being part of the Indian Super League, we all thank you for enamoring us with your presence.Ai??
Zico: Thanks a lot.
Joseph: How has the Indian Experience been so far?
Zico: It has been amazing so far. It feels fantastic to be in India. It is really a pleasure being here. I really hope to contribute significantly to football not only in Goa but India as a whole.
Joseph: The 1982 World Cup team which involved You, Socrates, Falcao has been dubbed by many as ai???the greatest team not to lift a world cupai??i??, your thoughts?
Zico: It was the best selection I played in. We didnai??i??t win but we made a great impact.
Joseph: What are your thoughts on the Brazilian National Team and their ai???failedai??i?? World Cup 2014? What are your thoughts on the appointment of Dunga?
Zico: What Brazil is missing in creativity. When I was a player, the passion for football was immense in the country. Pele took that passion even further. Team players used to enjoy playing the sport. It was almost like the spirit of carnival on the field. The present team lacks creativity. The players are good in the tactical knowledge,
Joseph: Do you want to see a specific brand of attacking football in FC Goa? What are your plans to ensure that?
Zico: We have many players in the some positions and but not many in other positions. But we need to adapt and do the best we can in the circumstances.Ai?? We have to adapt to the characteristics and skills of the players we have onboard. For example, we donai??i??t have players on the sides, wingers, who can mark well. The players I have are fast and skilful, but I canai??i??t change their strengths overnight and ask them to mark players.
Joseph: With the Indian Super League reaching its pinnacle, where do you see Indian football going in the next 5 odd years?
Zico: India has a population of over 1 billion people. There is place for all sports and for sure there is space for football. I would like to see sports like volleyball, basketball, swimming, athletics and other sports because sports is good for people. In Brazil, US, Japan and some other countries, there are many sports being played and I hope that will be the case in India as well. Sports is good for the country.
If we can change some mindsets, then we might see football gaining popularity in India. We need to mainly make changes in the diet of sportsmen and in the grassroots/youth development programmes.
Joseph: Coming to FC Goa, your team although dominating play has lacked penetration. Is it a major issue for your side?
Zico: I think we are making the wrong choices when it comes to scoring goals. We are not paying attention to some of the things we work on during trainings.Ai?? We have to practice well so that we can do what we are supposed to on when we get onto the field for a match. During practice sessions I try and bring every inch of my experience to show the players what to expect, what can happen, what to avoid so that the team can focus on what they have learnt during training sessions. But we have to carry on. We have to believe in ourselves. We have to be brave and be perseverant.
Joseph: What do you think about FC Goa’s chances in the Indian Super League ?
Zico: I think we still have chance to make it to the knockout stage.
Joseph: We all remember Zico as a mesmerising football, how is Zico as a person?
Zico: As a coach, when I need to be tactical and tough I will be that and if I need to be like a friend and guide to the team I will do that as well.
Joseph: Alright thanks a lot, it has been a real pleasure talking to you. All the best for the season ahead.Ai??
Zico: Cheers!
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