FC Goa overwhelmed with applications from Dunga, Hiddink, Eriksson

The Gaurs are in search of an appropriate replacement for Sergio Lobera at the helm.

With the AFC Champions League in view, FC Goa have begun their search for a new head coach. However, to the surprise of the ISL league-stage winners, there are some rather celebrated names in the list of applicants for the job, reports the Times of India.

Brazil's World Cup-winning captain Carlos Dunga tops the list, followed by others including former Chelsea and Netherlands tactician Guus Hiddink; former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, who was earlier tipped for the Indian national team job; Real Madrid great and former Spain manager Fernando Hierro; and retired former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam.

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Quite evidently, FC Goa face a dilemma over the selection of the perfect candidate for the role.

Dunga's application, however, can be understood considering his Brazilian connection with former Gaurs' boss Zico. The 56-year-old captained the Selecao to a World Cup victory back in 1994 and went on to take over as their head coach in two separate stints. Under his tutelage, Brazil won the Copa America 2007 and the Confederations Cup in 2009. His recent association with the team was during the 2014 FIFA World Cup followed by the Copa America in 2016.

To understand Dunga's stance behind the application for the role, FC Goa contacted his representative. "He is serious. He says he has heard a lot from friends about Indian football and interestingly, the only club he knows from here is FC Goa,” said the representative, according to the report.

Interestingly, Zico, during his time with the Gaurs, was the best-paid coach in the league, earning an ₹6.3 crore approx. sum for a five-month stint in 2016. Sergio Lobera too, was the best-paid coach before parting ways with the club. However, it is believed that FC Goa 'will not break the bank again for another big-name coach,' the report further adds.

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The other candidates, obviously, are among the top coaches in world football with a great reputation. With Sergio Lobera gone, FC Goa are now need to appoint an appropriate replacement for the Spaniard. “The club is flattered with the interest that is shown by these great names, but it’s unlikely that they will sign any big name," quotes a source close to the developments.

“There are several interesting names who are guaranteed to stay true to the club’s philosophy,” adds the source. Furthermore, it is understood that the club will take its decision within a fortnight, after reviewing the applications of the coaches who have won the I-League, ISL and have gained experience in the European divisions.

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