Dimitar Berbatov: Ever since the inception of the Indian Super League, a lot of global football stars have come to India to ply their trade. Although they were in the last few years of their professional career, they did make an impact in Indian football. One such star has to be Dimitar Berbatov who joined ISL outfit Kerala Blasters in 2017 did not have the best of outings especially under then Blasters head coach David James. Follow all the Football updates only on InsideSport.IN
Although the experience was not anything to write home about, Berbatov saw enough Indian footballers to assure that there is no lack of talent in India. However, he adds the importance of developing the grassroots as then only the country can refine the unpolished talented and be a force to be reckoned with in football.
Dimitar Berbatov is eager to feel the love of the Kerala crowd and also discusses his experience with the team so far#KeralaBlasters #IniKaliMaarum #NammudeSwantham #KBFC pic.twitter.com/cs9bViNaJn
— Kerala Blasters FC (@KeralaBlasters) November 15, 2017
“It always starts with grassroots development and academies where young players are given a chance to shine and show what they can do. It helps to find talents where you least expect to find talents. I played a season in India and know there are talented payers but the problem is at the grassroots level. [There are many] unpolished talents who need to be given a chance to show what they can do,” Berbatov said in an interaction with SportStar while endorsing the United We Play initiative by Apollo Tyres and Manchester United.
Berbatov openly criticised David James’ credentials as the head coach whereas the former England international also hit back at the Bulgarian stating how he was not an easy player to manage during his time in Kerala Blasters. James accused Berbatov of unprofessional behaviour whereas the Bulgarian made a disguised post mentioning ‘#WorstWannabeCoachEver directed towards then head coach. That season with Kerala Blasters was the last season of his career as he soon decided to hang up his boots.
Despite not having the best playing experience in India, Berbatov was always there to help his teammates. He used to guide young Indian players and give them tips to do things better. Therefore he revealed how Indian footballers want to learn more and how it is a good sign. He also adds how the players need to believe in themselves even though the level difference is huge.
My impression was that the young Indian players want to learn and they want to know more, which is good. The important thing is that Indian football is not at the same level as European football. But if you strongly believe that you have the ability and quality and need that advice, which now comes from one of the biggest clubs in the world in Manchester United, then it is a great opportunity for you to improve your game,” the Bulgarian revealed.
He then continued regarding his time in Kerala and how he advised Indian players to put in the hard work as there is any substitute. “I was telling the young players in India that they need to work hard, otherwise nothing will happen. The best example of this is Cristiano Ronaldo, who is working so hard at United even though he is so talented and we all see the results,” he said.
Lastly, he stated his wish of seeing an Indian footballer playing for Manchester United. Despite the difference in level Berbatov wants the Indian players to believe in their abilities. He wants them to remove the mental barrier and go with the attitude that they are going to succeed and only then probably things will change.
“Hopefully, a senior Indian player can one day make the transfer to United. Even if you come from India and the football there is not up to the level European level, you need to believe in yourself. Don’t be shy or think that everyone is better than you. Believe in yourself. Go with the mindset that you can succeed,” he concluded.
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