Pune: Striker Emiliano Alfaro from Uruguay is the first foreign signing of Indian Super League (ISL) club FC Pune City as preparations got underway for the upcoming edition of the ISL.
After having forgettable seasons in terms of performances and match day attendances, FC Pune City will look to better their record this time around.
In his last appearance in ISL, Alfaro represented NorthEast United FC and was quite impressive as he scored five goals in his 13 appearances.
The Uruguayan has plied his trade in Uruguay, Italy and United Arab Emirates before joining NorthEast United with FC Pune City being the latest addition.
In an interview with Sakal Times, Alfaro spoke about how he is looking forward to his stint with the Pune outfit.
“First, coach Antonio Habas called me and wanted me to join. Last season when I played I saw the city and people. It was very good. The team and the support staff are also good,” Alfaro said.
When quizzed about his experience with NorthEast United FC, Alfaro said “From the beginning I saw something different. The league, the game: everything was very good. Also the people and culture there was very good. The life during that stint in India was memorable.”
“In India there are so many football players who are very good. I think that they are doing a good job. The level of the game will now keep on getting better and better. You have to keep on improving and learning. I was surprised to see the level of the players when I joined the ISL last year,” Alfaro said.
Talking about head coach Habas, Alfaro said “I can say that he is a very experienced coach. He has a strong mentality and the players like this. That is what he told me. He knows the league. He can build a very good team for the upcoming edition of the ISL.”
“Of course everybody wants to win the ISL. But before that you have to make it to the semi-final stage. And before that you have to build the team and work hard to succeed. The dream is to become champions for which we have to work hard,” Alfaro said about his target this edition.
Asked about his views about the football fans in India he said “Fans are really crazy in India. Last year when I was in Guwahati I could feel it, the people were passionate there. I saw the similar craze here when I had come to play. The fans support their favourite teams and that feels good when you play and is encouraging.”
“I will give my best. I will work hard. I can’t guarantee success but I can guarantee work, I can guarantee to be professional and will keep trying till the final,” Alfaro concluded.
