Exclusive: Absolutely loving it here in India - Ferran Corominas

The former Espanyol forward admitted that football in India has become more attractive in recent years.

The story of FC Goa in the Indian Super League (ISL) last season is similar to that of Liverpool FC's in the Premier League.

Despite producing a brilliant display of football, the Gaurs fell short at the final hurdle, losing out to Bengaluru FC in the finale at Mumbai Football Arena. The Gaurs' talismanic frontman Ferran Corominas, unfortunately couldn't get on the scoresheet leaving the team dismayed.

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Nonetheless, the Spaniard once again showed his quality, as he led the team to a Super Cup victory only a month later to sign off a superb season. Having retained the majority of the squad, Goa now seek redemption as they aim to finally clinch the title under Sergio Lobera.

Ahead of the new campaign, Khel Now had the opportunity to interact with 'Coro' who, in what would have been a shocking move, had almost left the club in the summer.

"I spent two wonderful years here in Goa and my family was very happy. Completing a deal with the club was therefore an important thing for me as I always look after my family."

"And finally the time came when I signed an agreement with the club and now I am here," said Corominas.

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FC Goa stalwart Ferran Corominas opens upon an amazing journey so far in India, Spanish influence on Indian football, the competition and more.

Speaking about their journey to the final last season and whether they will be able to produce such a performance again this campaign, the player said, "It will be difficult to maintain that standard, to maintain that level. But, now that we have retained the core of the squad, we will do our best and try to reach as far as possible."

Ferran Corominas has been the top scorer in the ISL since the past two seasons and when asked whether he could do a hat-trick of Golden Boots, he smiled, saying it will definitely be his aim for the season.

The striker also opened up on the criticism he had to face when he failed to score in the final against the Blues and admitted that the game was a very close one. In all honesty, the match was tied on all fronts and it was very likely to end up in a penalty shootout.

However, to the disappointment of Corominas and FC Goa, Rahul Bheke found the back of the net in the 117th minute following a set-piece, a moment the Spaniard prefers to call 'very unlucky.'

Development of Indian Football

Moving on, Corominas also threw light on how football in India has changed in the past three seasons saying, "I must say the Indian players in the FC Goa squad have completely understood the expectations of the coach and have improved a lot. As for the Indian national team, there will a huge improvement in the years to come."

On Brandon Fernandes

Furthermore, he also heaped praise on his fellow teammate Brandon Fernandes saying, "I have said this before and will once again say that Brandon is a great player and he finally proved his mettle by recently featuring for the national team."

"All I can say is, he must improve and keep working hard and he has a bright future ahead."

Thoughts On Indian Super League

Ferran Corominas went on to add his opinion on the trending debate on the league structure of the ISL, saying it would have been better had there been more teams.

"However, as things stand, there are only ten teams in the league and it is better to have the playoffs system to keep the excitement of the competition intact."

Moreover, since the past few years, a lot of Spanish coaches have come to India and have introduced their style in the league. Visibly, the Spanish influence has helped Indian football develop and FC Goa are the best example of it.

Tactical gameplay such as playing from the back, keeping more of the ball, playing short passes has all come through these foreign coaches and Corominas was impressed with how this style of football has influenced the sport in India, saying that it perfectly suits the system here.

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Interestingly, the former Espanyol forward revealed that football in India has become more attractive in recent years and a lot of players, especially from Spain are pondering a move to the country.

Before joining FC Goa, Ferran Corominas had not expected it to be a longlasting association. However, as time passed, he admits to having enjoyed his time in India.

"It's been an amazing journey so far for me here in India. Me and my family, we are absolutely loving it here," added Corominas in conclusion.