I don't mind coaching Indian footballers: Branco

Brazilian footballer Branco, who was in the city for almost a month to train young guns for a TV reality show, shares his thoughts with us
After being in Kolkata for almost a month, what is your take on the city? What are the things that you liked in the city?
Kolkata is a well-developed city. It has a strong cultural ethos and people are very keen to preserve it.Kolkatans are very friendly and simple. I would like to thank them for their affection, care, friendliness and warmth. My family and I are about to return to Brazil but we have already started missing India even before leaving Kolkata. I didn’t get much time to roam around the city but I took maximum advantage of whatever opportunity I got to know this beautiful city. The places that attracted me are Victoria Memorial, Writers’ Building and the City Centre.
If offered, would you like to take up a coach or consultant’s job with Indian Football?
Indian Football has the potential to grow in future and this may lead to the development of football. But for being a recognisable force in the world of soccer, a lot of serious work is required. One needs to nurture kids at a very young age. However, I wouldn’t mind stating that the players here have the quality; they just need proper guidance. So far as being a consultant or a coach in India is concerned, why not? If there is something interesting in future, I’m game. Let’s see (laughs).
Kolkata loves Brazil blindly and was heartbroken with its early ouster, this World Cup. What are the major reasons for the poor show of Brazil?
I love Kolkata’s support for Brazil. I was very happy when I saw Brazilian flags all across the city. This only showed that people here love Brazil. Well, the reasons for an early exit can be this: Brazil and Holland are both strong teams. It was a good match. Brazil played well in the first half and could score only one goal. The second half belonged to Holland and they scored twice. This is the big difference and was very decisive.
Do you think India has the potential to be a force in football? What are the grey areas?
Yes, they have the potential and India can be recognised as a force in future, provided India has a good infrastructure, football clinic for young kids, training guides, professional physical trainers, physiologists and nutritionists. Here, I have seen talented players lacking in proper nourishment and care.
Finally, did you get to meet any Indian actor?
I got to know Bipasha Basu. She is very beautiful. Indian girls are pretty.
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