Going for goal

Playing football in the cobblestone streets was but that onesmall step for Luis Figo. Having literally used it as a stepping stone to mapout his future, he went on to become one of the all-time Iberian greats, andwishes that more people who have dreams along similar lines may be able tofollow in his footsteps, and pursue these dreams.

“The key is future development. Many of us only think ofwhat is required, but not how it should be achieved. Where I come from, thefocus was always laid on developing players at a very young age. I achieved mydream of playing with Sporting Lisboa at the age of eleven. Here, I am toldthat developmental processes are started at the age of 18. This is too late inlife for a sporting career,” the maestro says.

A major focal point that Figo believes is paramount tofinding this previously hidden talent is the boosting of a scouting system.With this in mind, he says, “There have to be people in place that pick upplayers if they show promise; be it in a stadium, the local playground, orstraight off the street.”

And the management of this same talent, within reasonableexpectation, is what will turn this footballing country on his head. “It isdifficult for me to say what India can achieve. But this initiative show greatpromise. Having seen these kids, it is clear that they have a dream. It’s whatall of us that formed the ‘Golden Generation’ of Portugal had. It’s what wefarm in terms of player development at Real Madrid. Their belief in themselveswill in itself boost their abilities.” he believes.

And in terms of advice to this next generation of players,the iconic midfielder handed out a few choicest lines. “Never try to merelyemulate your heroes. Also be true to yourself. You might ask what that willyield. I promise in trying, you will see for yourself,” he signs off with aroguish grin.