Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK : India’s recent experience with Indian-origin footballers has once again brought the issue of overseas players and their potential contribution to the national team into focus. The arrival of Ryan Williams, an Indian-origin footballer, has already made an impact for India, and former France international Vikash Dhorasoo believes the presence of more players with Indian roots could help the Blue Tigers progress at a faster pace.

Dhorasoo, who represented France at the FIFA World Cup, arrived in Kolkata ahead of India’s highly anticipated clash against Brazil. The former midfielder has been invited by the All India Football Federation to encourage and motivate the Indian players before their big international fixture. His visit has added another layer of interest to a match that is already attracting considerable attention among Indian football fans.

The AIFF had previously made efforts to bring Dhorasoo into the Indian national team setup and have him represent India. However, that move did not eventually materialise. Despite that, Dhorasoo continues to maintain a strong emotional connection with India because of his Indian heritage. Ahead of the Brazil match, he is now set to support the Indian team from the stands and cheer for players such as Ryan Williams.

Speaking in Kolkata around 48 hours before the Brazil match, Dhorasoo said that the fixture could provide Indian football with valuable international exposure. He also expressed his desire to contribute in whatever way he can to the development of football in India, emphasising his personal connection with the country and his wish to see Indian football reach the highest level.

Dhorasoo is also keen to speak directly with India head coach Khalid Jamil and the national team players before the match. He wants to offer the players a motivational pep talk and encourage them to approach the occasion without unnecessary pressure.

His message to the Indian players, particularly Manvir Singh and his teammates, is to enjoy the moment and make the most of an opportunity that does not come around often. According to Dhorasoo, the players have the chance to play one of the biggest matches of their careers, and they should focus on giving their best rather than being overwhelmed by the reputation of their opponents.

Dhorasoo also expressed confidence in Khalid Jamil’s ability to prepare India for the challenge. He said he expected the Indian coach to have a good plan for the match and stressed the importance of maintaining composure against a Brazilian side filled with experienced international players.

The former France international also spoke about the growing global nature of football and the increasing opportunities for players with different backgrounds to represent national teams. Referring to Indian-origin players such as Ryan Williams, Dhorasoo said that football has become much more international and players across the world are increasingly getting opportunities to play at the highest level.

He believes the decision to allow eligible overseas Indian-origin players under the OCI framework could help Indian football move forward. The presence of players with international experience and links to India, according to Dhorasoo, could add another dimension to the national team and accelerate its development.

Dhorasoo’s visit to Kolkata also carries a personal connection with Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti. Around two decades ago, Dhorasoo played under Ancelotti during his career in Europe. The Italian coach is now in charge of Brazil, making the upcoming meeting particularly special for the former France international.

Before travelling to India, Dhorasoo sent a message to his former coach after learning that Ancelotti would be coming to the country with the Brazilian team. Ancelotti replied to the message, and Dhorasoo is now hoping to meet his former manager in person on Friday.

The meeting would bring together two figures connected by their shared football history but now standing on opposite sides of one of the most eagerly anticipated international fixtures in India. While Ancelotti prepares Brazil for the match, Dhorasoo will be hoping to inspire the Indian players and help them approach the occasion with confidence and freedom.

For Indian football, the Brazil fixture represents more than just another international match. It offers the national team an opportunity to test itself against one of the most recognised names in world football. Dhorasoo’s message to the players is simple: avoid unnecessary pressure, embrace the occasion and give everything on the pitch.

As India prepare to face Brazil, the presence of a former France World Cup player in Kolkata has added further excitement to the build-up. Dhorasoo’s connection with India, his experience of playing at the highest level and his relationship with Ancelotti have all made his visit a talking point ahead of the much-awaited encounter.