An Indepth Interview with Varin Mehta (Royal Antwerp FC)

I had a chance to speak to Indian footballer Varin Mehta last week. Only recently the 21 year old from Mumbai has signed a one year contract with Belgian second division outfit Royal Antwerp FC, a club with tradition and they still hold a name here in Europe though the clubs best days are long gone. They are fighting to get back into the top tier of Belgian football and Varin hopes to play a role in that endeavour.

Amongst other things Royal Antwerp has a long-term partnership with English giants Manchester United to accommodate youngsters who do not get UK Work Permits and also have take youngsters on loan from the Red Devils. Royal Antwerp were also the last Belgian club to play an European Cup final.

While speaking to Varin I realise here is someone, down to earth, realistic and hard working, willing to give it all for his dream of being a professional footballer in Europe. Now by signing the contract at Antwerp Varin has fulfilled that part of his football dream, now more is to be accomplished.

Here is the complete interview. I personally found it impressive and I hope you too like it...


So when did you start playing football?

I was around six or seven. Since my school days I used to play the Under-8s, U-10s and U-12s tournaments in Mumbai.


So how has the experience been for you in Mumbai football - school league, Mahindra United Juniors?

It has been good! Coming from a Gujarati vegetarian business family it wasn't easy. In my family I was the odd one out in trying to move into sports. But I had the support of my parents and that helped a lot.


How did you end up in Belgium last year?

It is through my father. He knew someone whom he contacted. They asked for my CV (personal profile) and CD. Eventually I was called here (Antwerp) and that's how everything started...


Who has all helped you in your endeavour to play at Antwerp?

First my mom and dad! I'd like to thank them for the hard work they have put in. They have groomed me very well since childhood, they allowed me to follow my dreams.

Secondly I would thank my complete family and also my friends without whose support I wouldn't be standing here today.

Then my spiritual father over here in Belgium Mr. Luc Vandervecke, who had taken special and keen interest in me, who also saw the potential in me to succeed over here.

Also my sponsors, Reliance Industries - Mr. Mukesh Ambani. Who personally has had faith in me, who thought he can help and also did it for me to help in the growth of football. It is a great honour and I am very thankful to him also!

And above all god! Because of him I am born today to these parents and I have this kind of an opportunity.


What has been the biggest difference between Belgium and India for you? On the football field and off it.

Off the field it is the people, then it (Antwerp) is a very quite city. Not very lively as like in Mumbai or India. There (in Mumbai) we have people all around us - family, neighbours, friends. We just go into their houses at any point of time. Here in Belgium it is much more private, people do what they want. But luckily I have nice, local friends who hang out with me, take me out as well.

On the field the level of football it is very different, then it is more contact game and one touch, quick football. In India you can control the ball, take your time and play around; but here by the time you receive you have to let the ball go, otherwise you have lost it.


How has the journey been for you over the last year?

Its has been overall good! A lot of struggling, hard work, training every day, giving my best. I was determined to succeed, then I wanted to survive here and get a contract. I hope I can prove myself that I can make it here.


How has the transition been from just being a footballer, who can only practice, to be a part of a second Division Belgian club in Royal Antwerp?

It is a great honour to have this opportunity. Because being an Indian I myself thought it wouldn't be possible. Now since I have this opportunity, I will work to succeed. Then if I do then I would open doors for the upcoming juniors in India, who would want to come over to Europe and fulfil their dreams as footballers.


Whats your aim, your ambition for this season? You now have eight, nine months to prove yourself.

Yes. I will continue to remain focussed, do my best and follow the main rule of hard work that is sweat, blood and tears which is on the field and off the field. Listen to my coaches, grind myself into the game, adopt and learn to play like these people play and once I get an opportunity to strike goals.


You are a striker. At Antwerp are they using you as a striker?

It depends on the situation, on the tactics of the coach in that particular match. He might use me as a stiker or more withdrawn or maybe even on the wings.


You have told me about your ambitions to play for India. Please tell the readers a little more about it.

It would be an honour and a privilege to have the colours of my country on me, then it has always been my dream to play for India!
I had friends at Mahindra's who have worn India colours, who told us their stories. I never had that chance, but maybe now I will have that chance to prove myself in the Indian national team and grab a place amongst India's best.


Now if youngster read this interview, who want to follow in the footsteps of Baichung Bhutia, Sunil Chhetri and yourself now. What do you say to the youngsters?
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Be dedicated when you are off and on the field. Always give your best. The three main important things are sweat, blood and tears without which you cannot achieve anything. When you sacrifice a lot eventually hard work pays off. Focus on whatever you have to do, maintain your health. Learn to live like a professional since a child. So when you grow up, you will want to achieve your goals, then your dreams can come true and hopefully they will come true with all the hard work and dedication you put in.


Thank you for talking to me and all the best with your career in Belgium!

Thanks a lot!


Here the video of Varin Mehta signing on the dotted line for Royal Antwerp .