What’s the story?
Manchester United legend and former England captain Rio Ferdinand has dropped a big hint of a move to India’s franchise based league, the Indian Super League. The former West Ham academy graduate in a Facebook chat with fans was asked if he would ever be seen playing in India, he replied, “Listen, have you seen how fit I am at the moment? I'm fit wherever I have played. If they want me, come, come let's talk”.
The context
Rio Ferdinand is one of the most decorated players in Manchester United history, having played for the Red Devils at the highest stage for more than 10 years. During his time at Old Trafford, he won 6 Premier League trophies, a Club World Cup and one Champions League trophy.
ISL over the last three years has seen a lot of big names, the likes of Robert Pires, Roberto Carlos, John Arne Riise, Nicolas Anelka and Florent Malouda. Rio Ferdinand with his global image will help the League a lot.
The heart of the matter
India have long been known as a country known for their escapades in cricket and to some extent hockey. The Indian Super League, with marquee signings and foreign players, has been targeting to change the image for the last three editions.
The Indian Super League has definitely helped in getting eyeballs back to Indian football, and the game in the country has improved over the last couple of years. Indian football national team attained its best FIFA Ranking for a period of 24 years of 101, and a lot of it has a correlation with the coaches and foreign players who have been involved in the ISL.
What’s Next?
As every year, big names are likely to come to the Indian Super League. Rio Ferdinand, with his brand and personality, is definitely helping in pulling crowds to the stadium.
His experience and ability will be invaluable to Indians who play with the Englishman, and for him, it will be one last hurray after the brilliant career he has had. It might also help him move into management like Marco Materazzi and Roberto Carlos.
Author’s Take
Rio Ferdinand is undoubtedly one of the biggest names in world football, and it will do a world of good if he comes to India. Make it happen IMG, make it happen.
