Nobody understands the commercialisation of football quite like Manchester United. They've even branded their fan zone as #ILOVEUNITED and have given it the catchy tagline – One Club. One Love. One Family. One United.
With the help of their superstars from the world over who have been named club ambassadors - former stars like Park Ji Sung and Dwight Yorke; as well as other former players such as Quinton Fortune, #ILOVEUNITED has been going all over the world – organizing screenings, parties, interactions and working with charity.
Now, for the third time in a year, #ILOVEUNITED will return to India. After successes with their trips to Mumbai (in February; when United beat Arsenal 3-2) and Bangalore (in January; when United beat Liverpool 1-0) they will take the bandwagon to the spiritual home of Indian football – Kolkata.
The screening of the match between United and Tottenham on December 11, 2016 will bring about the culmination of activities that will happen over the weekend. The big news for United fans in India is that Dwight Yorke is coming down – the Trinidad & Tobago legend, of course, played a starring role in United's most successful season of all time. He will be accompanied by Quinton Fortune (one of Fergie's trusted jack-of-all-trades) and Bojan Djordjic (the highly talented Swede was touted as the next big thing when he broke through the ranks, but his United career never took off).
One of the special highlights of the event will be a 'legends' 3v3 tournament on a small-sided pitch overseen by Manchester United Soccer Schools coaches. The United trio are all set to participate in the tournament as will a team put together by local giants East Bengal.
The best part of it, though, is that the competition is open to the public and the winners will get a chance to attend a United match at the Theatre of Dreams – Old Trafford. Fans should register their interest by visiting www.manutd.com/3v3india. Naturally, applications will be entered into a ballot with successful teams getting notified via email prior to the event.
This is what Manchester United Group Managing Director, Richard Arnold had to say – “Each time we visit India our ties become stronger and our popularity is on full show. We are overwhelmed by the support of the 35 million followers we have in the country. By bringing #ILOVEUNITED to India for the third time in 12 months, we’re demonstrating our commitment to this fan base.
"We saw some unforgettable scenes in Bangalore and Mumbai, with both sets of fans cheering the team on to victory. We’ve no doubt this event will create a terrific atmosphere."
Throughout the weekend, the former United players will interact with fans and will also share personal anecdotes and have a little Q & A session as well as other competitions in association with the club's many sponsors.
Tickets for the event can be availed at http://www.manutd.com/iloveunitedindia with the deadline as 29th November. The tickets too will undergo a ballot process with notifications coming through via e-mail for the winners.
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