Sanson Pereira is living every Goan boys’ dream. At least that’s what he claims to be doing after penning a two-year deal with the Gaurs. 

And he already has set his plans for the future.

“I have been an FC Goa fan ever since the ISL started in 2014. I have been to the game at the Fatorda Stadium. It was always my dream to play for this team and it has finally come true,” exclaimed the delighted Sanson. “I want to win everything with the club. I want to win every game I play in FC Goa colours.”

Inspired by his uncle John Dias, who played in the I-League, young Sanson first shone for his school, Strapping for a game for Mae Dos Pobres High School. A year later it was Salgaocar who came calling via a trial arranged at the school. 

Ever since he has been part of the Greens’ set up. With Salgaocar, Sanson would go on to win the GFA U14 league before taking home the GFA U18 league title twice. In 2016/17, the defender would get his chance in the first team. He excelled there again, helping the team to the Goa Pro League crown. 

His consistent displays attracted attention from a number of admirers and his dream of playing for FC Goa finally came through this summer as he put his signature on the dotted lines of a two-year contract. 

“I know I am moving into a team that will see a number of changes and left-back is a position that has been occupied over the last two season by a veteran player. However, I don’t feel any pressure,” adds the 22-year-old. “I know I am going to have strong competition with Saviour Gama. He is someone I know well and he is really good. I think there will be healthy competition for that place, but I feel I am going to relish this.”

A Barcelona fan who idolises Lionel Messi, Sanson is also very keen to meet and play with some of his idols closer to home. 

“Ever since the first season that he came to Goa, I became a fan of Coro and Edu Bedia,” exclaimed the youngster. “I love the way they play. That’s a brand of football that will attract anyone and it’s the same for me. I am really looking forward to meeting some of the men that I have so far only seen on TV. I feel really confident heading into the season.”

Time will answer a number of questions that people might have of Sanson Pereira. However, a couple of things would remain unquestioned – his love for FC Goa and his belief in himself of making it big in the club he adores.