Portland Timbers midfielder George Fochive was part of the team's 2015 MLS Cup-winning side before eventually going to play in Europe. Now back in the Rose City, we learn about what his return means to him and what his pregame music set up is like.
Be sure to check out more in the Timbers match program ahead of the Aug. 4 game against San Jose (7:30pm PT, TICKETS, ROOT SPORTS).
You’ve played all over the world. What’s your favorite thing about travelling and experiencing new places?
Culture and human beings. We’re pretty much all the same, but different at the same time.
When you found out you were coming back to Portland, what emotions did you experience?
It was huge. It kind of worked out where it was a time when I felt like I needed to be here, and it so happened that I was called to come back here.
What did you miss most, or were you most looking forward to about coming back to Portland?
Everything’s just easier here, you know with the language, everything’s just simpler. I feel like I came here very young, so I still have the same habits, I like to eat at all the same places still. It’s just nice being familiar with everything.
Which footballers have you been inspired by the most?
Growing up, it was the ’98 World Cup Champion French team with Patrick Vieira and Zinédine Zidane in the middle. They are my all-time favorites.
What music are you listening to before a game?
It depends. If I’m too hyped up, I’ll listen to something mellow. If I’m too chilled out, I’ll listen to something more upbeat. But usually I need to dance before a game, so I can feel my body.
