FC Goa's success in ACL is the success of ISL, says Alberto Noguera

The Spaniard also commented on the Gaurs' impending campaign in the AFC Champions League.

Alberto Noguera has been through several places in his journey in football so far. Starting his career in Spain, the Madrid lad spent his youth career at Getafe, before moving to Rayo Vallecano and from there to Atletico Madrid. He made his senior appearance for the famed Spanish Red and Whites before he decided to move to England to play for Blackpool. He then moved to Azerbaijan to play for FC Baku before coming back to Spain. Now, in India, he is taking the Indian Super League by storm with splendid performances one after another. Currently leading the league in assists for a goal-hungry FC Goa, the player reflected on his time at the club.

Alberto Noguera believes in putting his team first before anything else. The philosophy is something that resonates with his current head coach Juan Ferrando. “I don’t think too much about my personal goals. I think about overall goals for my team. The most important thing for me is my team. We need to focus on the things that are coming.”

The Spaniard’s decision to move to India was in part to enjoy the rich culture the nation offers. However, the bubble has limited his experience of the same. But, he is hoping that it changes for the better soon. “I was open for a new experience. It was an opportunity for me to know a new country and a new culture. I hope that when the league is finished, I would be able to go out and enjoy this new experience. I took the chance and I am happy about that.”

The Spaniard has seen several young players within his side, who have great potential to be household names. “In FC Goa itself, there are a lot of players who have great future. I think if they improve a little bit, they would be able to play in the national team. They have great potential. They're working hard, trying to improve everyday. I think they are going to do great things. They need to keep working every day. That is the secret to improving and to achieve success.”

Lack of fans in stadiums has been an issue that has been brought forth due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Alberto Noguera assured the FC Goa faithful that despite their presence being not feasible, the Gaurs will not disappoint. “The fans are a big part of the game. Without them, it is tough. I hope that this situation will change. I hope that I would be able to enjoy with them next season in the stadium. For us, in Goa, they are a big part of success. A 12th player for us. I hope we can win and have a great season for them. That is very important.”

FC Goa are set to be the first club in India to feature in the group stage of the AFC Champions League. A momentous piece of history that is not lost on FC Goa players. “I think the AFC Champions League is important because we are not just representing a team, but a country. Our success is the success of the league. For us, it is a great opportunity and responsibility. I am sure that we are going to give our 100% and make you proud of us. We hope to be ready for that when the time comes."

He also took time to heap praise on his teammates, who have been a vital piece in him securing the highest assists in the league. “Being around great players is good because it becomes much easier for me. I am really happy to play with them. They are amazing players.”

With just one game left in the season, FC Goa are in a three-way battle for two playoffs spots. The crucial matches have the aura similar to that of the final. “We know that it is our final. We are focusing on ourselves, to give our best. Everybody knows that the coming games are very important. They know what they have to do on the pitch. We need to be ready, be focused and give our best. It is the best way to get success,” the midfielder concluded.

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