Team Herald
PANJIM: After months of drama and tensions, FC Goa finally announced their new co-owner and promoter Jaydev Mody and the return of Zico for the third Indian Super League season in formal function held at Nerul, on Thursday.
Mody took over as the new co-owner after buying the 65 per cent stake sold by former co-owners Shrinivas Dempo and Dattaraj Salgaocar after the ISL regulatory decision, which forced them to sell their stake for the betterment of the Club.
Mody expressed his excitement outlined his long term vision for the club.
“Our way forward is to stay on the same track as before and boost the club the way previous promoters of FC Goa had. I have to carry on that legacy,” said Mody while addressing the press conference.
Casino issue has always been in a limelight in the state. And with a casino owner as a new co-owner of the Goan football Club – it raised many eyebrows, however, the business made it clear that his main aim is to support the club and the management.
“I have invested in several other businesses – engineering, textiles, real estates, hotels – and I’m a shareholder in gaming business as well. I don’t know why we are focusing on just one of my business,” exclaimed Mody.
“I want to do the best for FC Goa and I don’t think the culture of my engineering business will overflow on FC Goa. I’m here in a supporting role and I’m here to support the management, Zico, the players and the team to make sure to do our best,” added Mody
“This team doesn’t just belong to the promoters. It belongs to every Goan within the country. Every Goan has a part to play in the success of this football club and we want their continued support,” said Mody.
When asked about his decision to take over the club, Mody instantly replied that he was lucky to get the opportunity to own the big Club.
“When I learnt about the possible change in ownership, after the previous owners decided to exit, it was the opportunity that was offered to me and I accepted it. I was just lucky,” revealed Mody while explaining about how he went on to win the deal.
With FC Goa earlier been fined and were under spotlight, Mody said that the slate is clean now and they would aim for a fresh start focusing one step ahead in the tournament.
Mody confirmed that Brazilian legend Zico, who has become a synonymous figure with the club’s identity, will continue in his capacity as the Head Coach for the third season.
“It was a very simple decision for us really. Zico is a true legend of the game and has been an integral part of the club since its inception. With him at the helm, we expect the team to do very well and give Goa the taste of beautiful football once again this season,” he explained
Zico, who was also present at the event added his thoughts at the prospect of coming back to Goa.
“It’s a pleasure to be back again. It always feels good to be back in the place where we know that we are loved,” the Brazilian legend said.
Zico shared his previous experience in Goa of visiting schools and meeting thousand children wherein he aims to give them and Goans, the much deserved happiness.
“I’m happy to be back here and I will give my best to give to the children and it touched me as I saw more than five thousand children supporting FC Goa,” he added.
FC Goa CEO Sukhvinder Singh, and players- Robin Singh, Romeo Fernandes, Prathamesh Shirodkar, Keenan Almeida were also present for the function.
