Internet Desk: Former Brazilian legend Zico is likely to extend his contract with FC Goa. Zico earlier stated he was not willing to return for the Indian Super League until he is given a long term contract following the final last year. FC Goa had to be satisfied with the runner’s trophy as they conceded two goals in last three minutes in the final against Chennaiyin FC at the Nehru stadium in Fatorda.
But according to reliable sources, the Goan franchise is close to extending the deal with the former Brazilian footballer. The former Iraq boss will continue to remain the coach of the Virat Kohli co-owned franchise for the 2016-17 season of ISL.The source further confirmed that Zico has agreed to return to Goa only on the assurance that he will be handed a long term deal.
“I don’t have a reason to go to a different place or to not come back here. The only thing I am speaking to the owners about not having work to do in the eight months I stay in Brazil. I always want to work in football and there is no way I cannot be working for eight months,” Zico mentioned in the aftermath of the ISL final last year in December.
Another reason for the Brazilian changing his mind was the Chinese Football Association appointing Gao Hongbo as the permanent coach of the national team. Hongbo was rewarded for taking China to an unexpected spot in the final round of Asia’s 2018 World Cup qualifiers. Zico along with former Argentina manager Marcelo Bielsa were among the shortlisted candidates for the job.