ISL 2017: John Abraham in talks to open world-class football academy in Assam

What's the story?

Bollywood actor John Abraham, who is a massive football fan and an acclaimed footballer himself, has expressed his desire to set up a world-class football academy in Assam in the near future.

In an interaction at the Brahmaputra State Guest House with Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the actor seems to have spoken about the idea in-length for which the minister has promised his full support.

In case you didn't know

A talented footballer who once dreamt to don the Indian colours, John Abraham captained his school and college football teams that put him in good stead as he went on to represent India 'A' division as a centre-forward until he chose to put education ahead of sport and went on to pursue an MBA.

However, football has always been a massive part of his life, so much so that he is the co-owner of Northeast United, a franchise that participates in the Hero Indian Super League and continues to play exhibition football for social causes, always a step ahead to promote the sport.

The heart of the matter

As a massive boost for his initiative, the CM of Assam confirmed that the state government placed the sports development as the need of the hour in the state while also adding that the government was striving towards making Guwahati the sports capital of India.

Stressing on his bond towards the Northeastern states of India, the multi-faceted actor went on to bring out his emotional attachment towards the people and added that he was saddened by the recent floods that only went on to fuel his desire to socially help the people of those areas through the sport of football.

What's next?

The ISL 2017 season kicks on November 17 and Abraham's NEUFC take on newbies Jamshedpur FC on the 18th.

Author's take

With the government set to start off on planning for the establishment of the academy, if it indeed make its presence felt in the state, it would undoubtedly inspire many youngsters to take up the game that would add to the talent pool of the country.