Disappointment over being eliminated from the Europa League, but also a determination to excel in the league, the Cup, and the Conference League, are the main themes of David Goldar’s interview with “AS.” The Spanish defender spoke about the bitterness over how the team lost its chance to advance against Salzburg, as well as the team’s next goal: Dynamo City and their continued European campaign.
He also mentioned the special relationship he has developed with Paphos and Cyprus, emphasizing the love and respect he receives from the fans. He also spoke about the differences between Cypriot and Spanish soccer, David Luiz’s presence on the team, and his dream of playing again in Spain and La Liga.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
With Pafos’s first-ever title already under his belt, the captain made it clear that the club’s expectations remain high: the league title, the Cup, and the best possible run in Europe. At the same time, he revealed that even after the goal he scored against Hajduk, which sent the match into extra time, his mind is already on the next goal and the next objectives.
You came within a hair’s breadth of eliminating Salzburg:
It’s a feeling of helplessness. We’d turned the game around very early on; we had everything going our way, and within ten minutes, it was all gone.
Now you’re facing Dinamo City of Albania, with the goal of qualifying for the Conference League. What is the team’s goal in Europe?
I really wanted to play in the Europa League so we could complete our run in all three competitions. It was a dream. Now that’s out of reach, I’d like for us to advance in the Conference League. Three years ago, we made it to the Round of 16. But first, we have to qualify by beating Dynamo City. These games are tough, especially when they’re decided over two legs. And once we’re in the competition, we’ll see. We also need to focus on the domestic league, because that’s what pays the bills.
You’re in your fourth season in Paphos. How do you feel in Cyprus? Is it very different from Spain?
There are many differences, but I always say you have to be smart enough to adapt to wherever you are. Every place has a lot to offer and a lot to teach you. Paphos and Cyprus in general have many similarities with Spain. The culture, the people… they make you feel right at home; they treat you very well. The people of Paphos have treated me and my family very well, and thanks to the athletic successes we’ve achieved, we’ve built a community where I feel very loved and appreciated.
Can you walk around freely on the street, or do people stop you often?
I feel incredibly proud. They have a lot of love and respect for me. I’m happy about everything we’ve accomplished, but also about the fact that I’m the team captain. They never make me feel uncomfortable. They’re very passionate, but at the same time they’re really good people, and they make you feel great. I’m proud of the love they show me and the reputation I’ve built in this city.
Do you miss Spain?
You always miss it. You always keep an eye on the market to see if there’s any chance of returning. We’re Spanish, and those roots are never lost. Right now I’m very happy here, but you always have your sights set on home, as is only natural. Spain is a great country and will always be my home.
As for soccer, and even though the general public had the chance to see a good sample of it last season in the Champions League, how would you describe Cypriot soccer, and specifically soccer in Paphos?
The big difference is that Spain has a very high level thanks to its academies and infrastructure. The tactical level and the way we understand the game from a very young age—this possession-based, positional soccer, the team-oriented play… is an identity that we Spaniards have, and when you leave Spain, you realize it even more.
Outside of Spain, in terms of physical attributes, there are many players with exceptional talent. Perhaps in Spain we don’t have that level of physical prowess, but our standard is so high that even with the best physical attributes, you can’t match Spanish soccer.
Cypriot soccer is more focused on strength and transitions; it’s more open, with more one-on-one duels. We’re trying to adapt to that, especially with Karsedo and Selades. In Europe, we’ve faced big clubs like Juventus and Bayern, who then force you to play deep. But we’ve tried to play our games one-on-one, chasing our opponents all over the field…
Two seasons ago, you won the first league title in the club’s history. What’s the goal this year?
At this club, what matters most is winning titles. I was fortunate enough to win them. The club’s demands and expectations are high. They’ve made a major investment. The goal is the league title, the Cup, and to compete in Europe. Paphos is an ambitious club. We’ve proven that we can compete.
Last season, David Luiz joined the team—a very high-profile signing given his career. How has he adapted?
He’s an experienced player with many titles to his name. He’s brought his track record with him and is eager to give his all, both on and off the field. We’re two individuals who want to give our best for the club, and we’re trying to help achieve our goals.
You’re a defender who scores goals. You proved that again a few days ago when you scored the goal that sent the match against Hajduk into extra time. If you had to pick one goal from your career, which one would it be?
It would be the next one. I have the luck, the talent, or the ambition to go for the goal. It’s the most fun part of soccer. When someone isn’t scoring, they start putting him at center back. I don’t believe anyone is born to be a center back.
That goal was very special because it had been a difficult year for me personally due to injuries. But I’ve already put it behind me, because we lost the second leg. The euphoria of a goal is fleeting.
Do you have any unfulfilled aspirations in soccer or any goals you still want to achieve?
Plenty. My childhood dreams are still alive, but reality keeps you grounded. I’d like to play a season in Spain, in La Liga. After that, I want to make my family happy, ensure the best possible future for them, and continue to enjoy my profession, which I love so much.
