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The Indian Super League has seen a host of football stars visit the country to ply their trade across the eight existent franchises. Now, an even more illustrious name could be added to the list, albeit not within a playing capacity. According to sources, Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres will be coming to India as a part of the Atletico de Kolkata camp, during their first home fixture at Salt Lake Stadium.
An Atletico de Kolkata official, who chose to remain anonymous, said,”There are high chances that Torres could attend Kolkata’s first home game to draw in the crowds and also be a part of the franchise’s promotions. Considering the football craze in Kolkata, Torres is sure to be a hit with the crowd. Club owners are currently working out the dynamics of how to bring him here as per his availability.”
Atletico de Kolkata’s first home game is a repeat of last year’s final between Kerala Blasters on October 13. The addition of Fernando Torres will not only help enhance the spectacle, but will also go a long way in expanding the popularity of the league to various parts of the world.
Popularly known as El Nino, Atletico Madrid’s number 9 has already established contact with Kolkata fans, through a video on social media. He requested all fans to support them, during their match against Barcelona.
Torres returned to the Vicente Calderon last season, after an unsuccessful stint with current Barclays Premier League Champions, Chelsea.
How ISL 2015 promises to look
The second edition of ISL has already seen several high profile players put pen to paper for big money. Players such as Roberto Carlos, Lucio, Carlos Marchena, John Arne Riise, Helder Postiga, Nicky Shorey and many more will be adding to the league’s quality quotient. The likes of Nicolas Anelka and Elano have chosen to re-sign for their franchises from last year, with the league’s popularity soaring high.
Attendance of a high profile European striker such as Fernando Torres will garner eye-balls from around the world. The cash-rich league is set to start on October 3, with the finals being played on December 20.
In terms of sponsorship revenues, ISL has already managed to garner close to twice the amount from last year. From Rs 55 crore to Rs 100 crore, the league seems to have kicked off in some style, with various companies wanting to be a part of the extravaganza.
