Although many negative comments are being circulated on different social media by ardent football fans, he is still regarded as one of the best defenders in Asia.
Along with Nepal’s national football team, Chand, who is just 21, also plays for Persija Jakarta, an Indonesian soccer club.
He completed a two-year deal with the Indian Premier League outfit, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
Chand started paying football at the age of eight. [break]
The whole nation is blaming you for losing the tournament. What do you want to say about that?
I’m really sorry, and that’s all I can say at the moment. I know they are very disappointed with my performance. I accept all their comments and will try to do better and prove my worth in the future. Their anger and disappointment are understandable because they expected a lot from our football team. We always have to keep in mind that the one you love the most disappoints you by his performance, and that’s natural. But I promise I’ll try my best to keep my nation’s pride in the international arena.
What was the reaction of your parents?
They were also upset, like millions of other Nepalis. But they supported me and tried to cheer me up during what was possibly the worst moment of my life. They didn’t let me down; they encouraged me to give my best in the next game. They have always supported me, and without their support I wouldn’t be where I’m today. Although my dad is a retired Indian Army officer, he considers Nepali football as his own.
How do you find the whole tournament and more specifically your own teams’ games?
It was good and interesting. I noticed a lot of improvements in our football players during the SAFF Championship. Though we couldn’t qualify for the finals, all the football players have improved their performance and abilities. We tried our level best to be in the final of the SAFF Championship but unfortunately we couldn’t make our dreams come true.
As you’ve played with international clubs, how different is the football scenario in Nepal as compared to other countries?
There’s not so much difference between our and their trends as far as football is concerned. But the only thing is that the football clubs of other countries are financially stronger than of those of ours. They get a lot of financial support whereas we don’t have much backing in resources.
What’s the present scenario of football in Nepal?
In Nepal, football is still in the initial developing stage. We still require a lot of support and motivation to flourish in this sector. We have a lot of good football players who can play in international teams. We need to polish our skills and have encouragement to play for international football clubs.
What should be done to develop football in Nepal?
We can start by paying more attention to league matches. Currently, not much importance is given to such tournaments. Also, there’s a dire need to back football teams and make them strong in all aspects. That way more people will be motivated to take up football and pursue it as a career.
You’re one the highest paid football players of the country. Don’t you feel proud?
(Laughs) Money’s not everything. So there’s nothing to be so proud about. I don’t play football for money. I’m passionate about football. Having said that, it’s
also my career and I’m happy that I can afford to have a good life because of it.
Who’s your best footballer, national and international?
Biraj Maharjan is my favorite football player at the national level. Paolo Cesare Maldini, the Italian football player, is my all-time favorite at the international level.
Besides playing football, what are your other hobbies?
I love to travel when I get the time. Besides that, I also like to read. I pick up magazines for my dose of quick and light reading.
What are your future plans?
After a few weeks, I’ll resume training in a bid to prepare myself for further matches. That’s all I’ve planned for now. My focus will be on the game.
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