We sat down with TFC and TFC II midfielder Manny Aparicio this week to chat about his favourite soccer teams and the type of player he is.
Q: Describe yourself on the pitch vs. off the pitch?
On the pitch I’m an attacking minded player, but at the same time when it’s needed in the game I can be defensive and work hard to try to get the ball back.
Off the pitch I’m quiet when I meet new people but with my friends and the people I know I’m really outgoing.
Q: What are some things you like to do on your downtime?
I like to relax at home and I like to hang with my little brother and play FIFA with friends.
Q: Favourite soccer team?
My favourite team is Barcelona but growing up River Plate has always been my favourite team. My older cousins influenced me to watch Barcelona and [Lionel] Messi when he was first starting, so since I was like 10 or 11 years old I’ve been supporting Barcelona and River [Plate].
Q: Favourite spot in the city?
I love the beaches. I live in East York so whenever it’s a nice day I like to go walk around the beach or ride my bike along the beach.
Q: What do you like to do on game day to prepare yourself for the match?
At home I like to get a good amount of sleep and just relax all day, just watching TV and Netflix.
Q: Who’s the biggest jokester on TFC II?
Probably Raheem Edwards [laughs].
Q: What player do you like to emulate your game off of?
I love Messi; he’s my idol. Obviously you can’t really play like him but Messi would definitely be the figure I try to aim to be.
Q: What is one or some of your greatest soccer achievements?
Last night [a game vs. Manchester City] was really good. Playing against Colombia for Canada when I got my first national cap, that was a big moment. Also signing my contract with the first team.
Q: Favourite player?
Messi, by far.
Q: If you weren’t playing professional soccer what would you be doing?
If I never went pro I would definitely still be doing something with the sport. If not soccer I would say anything to do with accounting or mathematics because I’m good at math.