Jofre eyeing second ISL crown with FC Goa

Sullivan Noronha

Sullivan@herald-goa.com

PANJIM: Jofre Mateu Gonzalez, known simply as Jofre is a product of the famed FC Barcelona youth system (La Masia) and has spent most of his career playing in Spain’s top flight league. 

He went abroad for the first time in his career when he joined Indian Super League (ISL) side, Atletico de Kolkata for the inaugural season of the ISL. He helped his team attain success as the Kolkata side romped to victory in the first season and put on important performances along the way.

Jofre joined veteran Brazilian Zico’s project with the semi-finalists of the first season, FC Goa for the second episode of the lucrative tournament. Primarily, a left sided midfielder, Jofre is known for his speed, dribbling ability, passing acumen and an accurate shot. A senior member of the side at age 35, Jofre will bring valuable experience to the team along with his winner’s medal from the earlier season. 

Admitting that his winning experience could benefit the team, he was quick to say that just one player did not matter. “I think it (winning the ISL) could add value to the side. But at the same time, I am just one player and the team has to click as a whole. I will try my best to bring that experience to the team and maybe there might be certain moments where it could help,” he asserted. 

Jofre was the second highest scorer for FC Goa in pre-season in Dubai, scoring two goals. It looks as though the Spaniard has settled seamlessly into his new team. Jofre was quick to say that it wasn’t difficult to settle into a good side like this one. 

“Yes, I have settled down easily. I feel good on the pitch. It feels even better this season and I hope I can reproduce the form on the field,” he said.

The former Barcelona man left home aged 13 and credits his home club for his development as a player. “It has certainly helped me a lot. I grew up there. It is my home. It helps not only in the way I play, but in other aspects of life too,” he noted.

Jofre heaped praise on new coach Zico saying that he’s not only a legend but is a very humane person and added, “He knows the game and knows how to develop his players. I think that’s fantastic for us as a team.”

“When I played against FC Goa last year, I knew how tough it was. I’m very happy with the level this team is at. The beginning of my journey here is better than what it was with Kolkata last year. We need to keep working hard. We have good players, a good environment, great fans and great conditions. Besides, Goa is a fantastic place to be in,” he said with a smile.

Romeo Fernandes has gained a lot of fan-following with his breakthrough with the Goa side last year. Jofre was quick to point out that Romeo is the kind of player who makes things happen on the pitch. 

“He can create something out of nothing. He has pace, his skilful and has a good shot. We expect a lot from him for this season,” he admitted.

Hoping to make it two championships in two years, the 35-year old said that he will take it one game at a time. “I hope we can (win the title). But we need to go slow, keep out feet on the ground and take it one match at a time,” he quipped.