The Gaurs will also become the first-ever Indian football club to feature in the AFC Champions League group stage.
Spanish midfielder Alberto Noguera is one of the key signings for Juan Ferrando’s side this season. The midfielder spoke exclusively to Sportskeeda about the Coronavirus lockdown, English and Spanish football, his objectives for the season, and the prospect of the Indian Super League. Excerpts from the Interview:
Alberto Noguera began with the impact of the Coronavirus lockdown in Spanish football in terms of wages, finances, youth football and personal fitness. He said:
Alberto Noguera was born in Madrid, Spain - the heartbed of Spanish football. It is no surprise that he fell in love with the sport as he grew up. When asked about his introduction to the sport, he said:
Alberto Noguera, despite hailing from Madrid did not reveal his favourite football club. He said:
A fan of Spanish Golfer John Rahm, Alberto Noguera revealed to Sportskeeda his favourite pastime other than assisting goals on the football pitch. He said:
Alberto Noguera has played the majority of his football in Spain. He has appeared for sides like Rayo Vallecano B, Rayo Majadahonda, SS Reyes and Atletico Madrid B before moving to Blackpool in England. When asked about the differences between English and Spanish football, he said:
Alberto Noguera’s upcoming tenure at FC Goa will be his first playing experience outside Europe. Noguera expressed excitement about the upcoming new challenge:
FC Goa are the defending league winners of the ISL and the 2019 Super Cup winners. Alberto Noguera explained why deciding to move to FC Goa was a no brainer for the Spanish midfielder:
Despite media reports about potential offers from other clubs in Asia and Europe, Alberto Noguera is focused on his stint in India. He said:
Alberto Noguera: “Look forward to AFC Champions League”
FC Goa’s foreigner roster includes Igor Angulo, Jorge Ortiz and Ivan Gonzalez. Australian defender James Donachie will be the AFC signing. The Gaurs have a Spanish-dominated playing squad and training staff. When asked if having players from a similar background helps, he said:
FC Goa will be representing India for the very first time in the AFC Champions League 2021. Alberto Noguera is eagerly anticipating the challenge. He talked highly about the growth of Indian football:
FC Goa finished top of the league last season and have released most of their key players during the window. Last season’s key players like Hugo Boumous, Mourtada Fall, Mandar Rao Dessai, Ahmed Jahouh and Jackichand Singh departed from the club. When asked if there is any added pressure on Alberto Noguera to perform to the expectations of the fans, he said:
New Head Coach of FC Goa Juan Ferrando has interacted with Alberto Noguera. Speaking on the upcoming season, the former Atletico Madrid B midfielder said:
Alberto Noguera insists that he has many more years to play football and his best playing moments is yet to come:
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