(Football news) Finding players Gouramangi, who is currently FC Goa’s assistant coach, is quite happy with what the Reliance Foundation Development League (RDFL) has accomplished so far in terms of discovering and developing new talent for the Indian football industry.
The 37-year-old, who has played for numerous clubs across the nation, including Dempo SC, Churchill Brothers, and FC Pune City, reflected on his playing days when there were few opportunities and urged current players to take full advantage of the resources they have access to.
“I am glad to see that a lot of things are happening today. If I compare from my time when I was growing up, now there are a lot more platforms for boys to compete and perform, which is a positive sign for Indian football. As football is evolving all over the country, boys nowadays play more competitive matches in a structured manner. They are getting a great league like RFDL, so the only thing players have to do is make the most out of it,” said Gouramangi.
Increased game time
Singh believes that development events are essential for preparing U21 players for the next level and providing them with the necessary game time.
He also added, “What RFDL has done so far is commendable, not for only our (FC Goa) boys but for all the young players in the country. Earlier, the game time was missing for the players but now there is an impressive level of competition. As an assistant of FC Goa coach, our focus is definitely on the league and I’m glad about what the tournament has done in two seasons,”
“There are few things which they can do now as U-21 players but not when they are part of the senior dressing room. When one becomes part of the senior dressing room, there are higher expectations from them to deliver. But now here, maybe some coaches will allow them or give room to explore, and make a few mistakes. So, it’s now an opportunity to sharpen their skills and be ready, because the next step will be different all together,” he added.
Great opportunity to join the first team on this platform
The former Manipur footballer also explained why boys look forward to the competition.
“I think RFDL is a great platform and as a club we are looking forward to it because for the developmental team, it’s one of the most important features in the calendar year. And as the assistant coach of an ISL team, whenever I talk to boys, they are looking forward to the matches because they know that they are going to meet some of the best in the country. This is the right way to move further, get to the senior team,” Gouramangi said.
Afterward, he said “I hope a lot more players come up, grab the opportunities and get selected to a lot of bigger clubs in the ISL, I-League,”
Also read: Jamshedpur end group stage with all-win record, ATK lose to Goa
