XtraTime Web Desk: There is a say that people only remember those who once came first and did something memorable for the first time, but in the case of Fikru Teferra Lemessa it’s not true. In the very first edition of the Indian Super League Fikru took just 28 minutes to write his name in the record books as he became the first goalscorer in the history of the cash rich league for ATK (then Atletico de Kolkata) against Mumbai City FC on October 12, 2014. Not only that he had also won two ISL titles (with ATK and Chennaiyin FC) in the first two seasons but that good time is gone right now. The Ethiopian is currently in South Africa, without a club and with an aim of starting his own youth development project.
“I have offers from some clubs. Some matches are left in South African League, so if a club wants then I can play for them. I am also busy opening my academy which will start in Ethiopia but due to this Covid-19 pandemic everything has stopped but hopefully in the next three or four months it will take off,” said Fikru to Ahmedabad Mirror.
After securing the ISL title in the first season, ATK decided to release their Ethiopian striker. Fikru came back to India with Chennaiyin FC next season and again helped his side in winning the ISL title. However, that was not enough to keep Fikru in India for a long period as he had other plans in his mind.
“I had other opportunities which would assist me in my career after football. I wanted to develop my skills and attain qualifications as a coach. I had offers from other Indian clubs when I left Chennaiyin FC. I was also injured then, so my goal was to get fit and come back again,” recalled Fikru.
His association with Indian football has been a rollercoaster one and it is needless to say that he could have achieved more. The talismanic striker is not bothered about what could have happened. He cherishes the sweet memories of Indian football and desires to return to the country, albeit in a different role.
“India has been an electrifying place to play in. I have not only gained supporters and fans but also a family for life and I will always appreciate the way they welcomed and supported me. I believe I had optimally performed in India and made history with my achievements. My goal is now to get back to India in terms of coaching and youth development.
“I can come back as a player also but I will appreciate it if they accept me as a player-cum-coach because currently I am focusing on coaching,” said Fikru.