Diego Forlán prescribes a remedy for the improvement of Indian football
Forlan stressed that the development of Indian football must begin at the grassroots level. He called for stronger academies for young players and more competitive matches to help the next generation develop.
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XtraTime Web Desk
He is Diego Forlan. A FIFA World Cup Golden Boot winner in 2010, Forlan is no stranger to Indian football either. He played for Mumbai City FC in the 2016 Indian Super League (ISL) and even travelled to Kolkata with the Mumbai side for their match against ATK. Now, Forlan is back in Kolkata—and on Monday, from the city itself, the Uruguayan legend offered Indian football a clear roadmap for improvement.
Forlan stressed that the development of Indian football must begin at the grassroots level. He called for stronger academies for young players and more competitive matches to help the next generation develop.
When asked how Indian football can improve, the former Uruguay star did not focus on the senior national team or suggest any quick-fix solution. Instead, he went right to the roots of the game, making it clear that greater attention must be given to grassroots development.
According to Forlan, if the academies become stronger, the leagues will automatically become stronger as well. More quality footballers will emerge, and that, he believes, is the key to building a stronger football structure in India.
Forlan also watched India's match against Brazil and was impressed by the way the Indian team played for large parts of the first half. He particularly appreciated India's willingness to move forward instead of simply sitting deep and defending against the five-time world champions.
Among the Indian players who caught his eye were Ryan Williams, Manvir Singh and Sahal Abdul Samad.
Forlan also believes that exposure to teams of Brazil's calibre can help Indian footballers understand what is required to compete at the highest level. Playing against stronger opponents, he feels, can provide invaluable experience and ultimately accelerate the development of Indian football.