Vikash Dhorasoo: India-Brazil Clash Can Create Opportunities for Indian Players Abroad

Xtra Time Newsdesk: Former France international and 2006 FIFA World Cup runner-up Vikash Dhorasoo interacted with members of the media in Kolkata on Thursday. He shared his thoughts on Indian football, the potential of OCI players, and his visit to the city ahead of the India-Brazil international friendly.

The match between both teams represents an important opportunity for Indian football to engage with the global game, giving the Blue Tigers the chance to test themselves against one of the most decorated teams in international football. For the players, the occasion offers valuable exposure and experience and for Indian football, it underlines the growing opportunities to create meaningful international experiences on home soil and inspire the next generation to connect with the sport.

Dhorasoo, who represented France at the 2006 FIFA World Cup and has Indian roots, spoke with pride about his connection with the country and his interest in the development of football in India. He also expressed his willingness to help build a bridge between Indian football and the diaspora, while highlighting the opportunities that greater international exposure can create for Indian players.

“If I'm allowed to create a bridge between France and India from a football point of view, I would be honoured to be able to do so,” Dhorasoo said. “Being the bridge between this diaspora and India is obviously possible since I am living proof that someone from the diaspora can play at a very, very high level.”

Speaking about the way forward for Indian football, Dhorasoo stressed the importance of having a clear long-term vision and implementing it consistently across different levels of the game.

“India first of all must choose the path it wants to follow for its football, and then implement it at youth category level, at coach formation level as well, and develop it for a long time, and create the result through a plan,” he said.

Dhorasoo also spoke positively about the prospect of players of Indian origin contributing to the national team, pointing to the experience of other countries in integrating dual-national players.

He further underlined the significance of the India-Brazil friendly, saying it provides an important platform for Indian players to showcase their abilities.

“I think tomorrow’s game is a good test for them to showcase their talent and offer perspectives for them to play abroad,” he said.

Reflecting on his visit, Dhorasoo said his connection with India has remained strong through generations. “I have a very, very strong link with India, which was never broken,” he said. “So I am very happy to be here, and I can't wait to see the match.”