Denzil Franco’s passion for football is contagious. As a former international footballer and current Athlete Director at the Denzil Franco Football School, he’s dedicated to nurturing young talent and promoting football development in India.
A Childhood Dream
Growing up in Goa, Denzil was naturally drawn to football. His biggest influences were his family, coaches, and players he admired, both locally and internationally. Legends like Roberto Carlos and Cafu inspired him, but it was his late father, Joe Franco, who pushed him to pursue his passion.
International Career Highlights
Denzil’s international career was marked by several highlights, including winning the SAFF Championship and playing in the AFC Challenge Cup. He was also part of the National Squad that won the Nehru Cup in 2012, defeating Cameroon. Being part of the national team and contributing to Indian football on that stage was an unforgettable experience.
Coaching Philosophy
Denzil’s coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, technical skills, and a strong mentality. He believes that talent alone is not enough; players need the right guidance, exposure, and work ethic to succeed. His approach focuses on developing players holistically, ensuring they improve technically, mentally, and physically.
The Denzil Franco Football School
After his playing career, Denzil wanted to give back to the sport by nurturing young footballers. The Denzil Franco Football School (DFFS) was born from this desire, aiming to create a structured grassroots program where kids can develop in a professional yet enjoyable environment.
Identifying and Developing Young Talent
Denzil looks for technical ability, decision-making, work ethic, and attitude when evaluating young players. He emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, adaptability, and fitness levels in assessing a player’s potential.
Future Plans and Collaborations
Denzil is working on expanding the DFFS reach, providing more players with quality training. He’s exploring collaborations to offer better training, facilities, and career pathways for young footballers.
A Message to Young Footballers
Denzil’s advice to young footballers is to remain patient, work hard, and persevere. He emphasizes the importance of discipline, dedication, and continuous learning in achieving success.
