In the sun-drenched coastal state of Goa, where football is more than just a sport, a prodigal son has returned. Sahil Tavora, at 28, may seem like your average footballer, but his journey and ambitions set him apart in the competitive world of Indian football.
Tavora’s homecoming to FC Goa after eight seasons away marks a significant chapter in his career. Having cut his teeth at Sesa Football Academy and Dempo SC, Tavora made his top-flight debut for FC Goa back in 2016. Now, he’s back where it all began, armed with experience, tactical acumen, and an unwavering determination to bring the elusive Indian Super League (ISL) trophy to Goan soil.
“I’m back after 8 seasons, so I’m very happy to be here,” Tavora says, his eyes gleaming with excitement. “I was obviously following the team last year, they had a very good season. My objective is just to help the team whenever I can and hopefully to build on last year.”
Tavora’s return to FC Goa isn’t just a homecoming; it’s a reunion with a familiar face – head coach Manolo Marquez. The duo’s successful partnership at Hyderabad FC, which culminated in an ISL title in 2022, played a significant role in Tavora’s decision to don the orange jersey once again.
“We worked together for three seasons. I have a good relationship with him, on the pitch and off the pitch as well,” Tavora explains. “He knows me as a player, and so in that, the decision-making of his was definitely one of the factors. I’m happy to be here and work under him again this season.”
Tavora’s journey through Indian football has been nothing short of a whirlwind tour. From FC Goa to Mumbai City FC, Hyderabad FC, and Punjab FC, he has experienced the diverse football cultures across the country. However, it was his five-year stint at Hyderabad FC that proved to be the most transformative.
“In Hyderabad, I had the longest time actually, five years,” Tavora reflects. “That time was like sort of when I developed the most as a player and I had probably the most successful time of my career. We had that continuity. You know at one club and similar players for a few years, you sort of gel better and perform better, so I think that helped us and it helped me as well.”
Known for his technical prowess and mental fortitude, Tavora’s style of play often attracts the referee’s attention. Playing in the holding midfield position, he embraces the necessary aggression required for his role. “If I’m too nice, it doesn’t help in that position,” he admits with a smile. “So my position almost asks me to be aggressive and not very nice.”
FC Goa’s midfield is a melting pot of experience and youth, creating a dynamic environment that Tavora relishes. “When you have competition for these positions, the level in training goes up and it’s almost like you have to compete every day to get your spot,” he explains. “I think this competition in midfield helps and I want to give my best all the time I play for the team.”
Tavora’s football journey took an interesting detour in 2018 when he spent a season with Alvarenga, a third-division club in Portugal. This experience, he says, was crucial in shaping him both as a player and a person. “That one season really helped me into becoming more of a man,” Tavora reminisces. “I was away from home, tough conditions. It was a lower league, so it’s a lot more competitive, a lot harder.”
As he settles back into life in Goa, Tavora harbors ambitions of donning the blue jersey of the Indian national team. “Definitely, I have the ambition to play for India,” he affirms. “I’ve actually had two good seasons back-to-back. I can only control my performances and my season with my club. If I have another good season consistently, then that is something that probably could come.”
While the ISL season is still in its infancy, Tavora and FC Goa have their sights set on lofty goals. “We have to be very ambitious personally and as a team,” he states. “Last year they almost got it, they came very close and I think they have that taste and that feeling for it being close. We have to take it game by game but in the long term definitely have it in our heads that we want to have a very good season.”
Off the pitch, Tavora looks forward to unwinding in familiar surroundings. “This year will probably be easier because I’m in Goa, I’m at home, so my family will be there,” he says. The beaches of Goa, a constant in his childhood, now offer a welcome respite from the rigors of professional football.
As the sun sets on another day in Goa, Sahil Tavora’s journey comes full circle. From a young debutant to an experienced midfielder, his return to FC Goa is more than just a homecoming – it’s a mission. With the support of his family, the guidance of a trusted coach, and the backing of passionate Goan fans, Tavora is ready to write the next chapter in his football story. And who knows? This might just be the season when the ISL trophy finally finds its way to the shores of Goa.
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