Japanese football icon, Keisuke Honda, talks to our reporter Thinley Namgay on why he joined Paro FC, his upcoming match in the AFC Challenge League, and about football and life.

What made you decide to come to Bhutan and join Paro FC?

I came for two reasons. First, I heard that the upcoming AFC match is paramount for Paro FC. Paro FC is yet to play in the AFC Asian Cup. If we win the forthcoming game, the club will qualify for the second stage of the Asian Cup. Secondly, I felt the club really wanted me to play, even if it is just for one game. I was enthusiastic about the club’s offer.

How did you feel about the quality of Bhutanese football after playing the exhibition match against Bhutan’s under-20 national team on August 5 at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu?

Bhutan is not a developed football country. The country still needs some time to reach a high-level of football standard. The under-20 players are promising, and they have time to improve further. Japanese coaches are training them, and it shows that football is getting better in Bhutan under the guidance of international experts. I think this is important for the quicker development of football in Bhutan.

On August 13, Paro FC will play against Church Boys United in Nepal. What are your expectations for this game?

I am here to win the game. I feel some pressure, but I do believe that we can achieve our mission as a team. The game will be challenging, but I am confident that we will win. Paro FC has many good players.

You joined Paro FC on a one-game contract. Is there any plan to stay a little longer than that?

Although  I came for one-game contract, I will be playing three games. I have a game today. Just now, I cannot say whether I will stay a little longer, but it is likely that I will not extend the contract.

As a famous Japanese international footballer and having played in three World Cups, what are your advice to our government, Bhutan Football Federation, and players so that Bhutan can also play in the World Cup one day?

It is challenging to feature in the world cup, but it is possible. It is crucial to engage in major projects. Bhutanese players could learn a lot from international players. For that, it would be good to accept foreign players who want to change their nationalities, but I know it is not easy.

As a footballer, who is your role model and why?

I like many players. But I am inspired by French player Zinedine Zidane and Brazilian Ronaldo.

Are there any specific techniques

or strategies you focus on during

training?

My aim is to score a goal or  assist other players. For that, I am training on improving communication among teammates and understanding each other.

You have played many games in different countries. Which match or tournament stands out the most in your memory and why?

I always had a different vibe representing my  country in the World Cups. I still cherish the games played in different countries. However, the matches I played representing Italy’s AC Milan club are my favorites. AC

Milan is one of the best clubs in the world.

Do you have any hobbies or interests

outside of football that you’re

passionate about?

I like to do business by investing in startups. Other than that, I like to sing karaoke. Moreover, I enjoy playing golf and reading books.

What is your advice for our young

footballers in Bhutan?

I have three pieces of advice for them. They should have big dreams in life, work hard, and not give up. Achieving dreams without hard work is impossible. It is challenging to be a better player. Sometimes you will feel bad about conceding goals from better teams, and sometimes you might not be able to play as expected. Some players also have to undergo family issues and feel lonely being away from loved ones. But if you have dreams, they will keep you moving.

What do you like most about Bhutan?

I like Bhutanese people as they are hospitable and respectful.