Don't want India to be restricted in SAFF, but explore CAFA, gulf, middle-east, says Kalyan Chaubey

Kalyan Chaubey spoke of the possibility of Indian clubs going to play overseas.

India’s recent triumphs in Bangabandhu SAFF Championship, Hero Intercontinental Cup and Hero Tri-Nation Cup has aroused a good feeling around for Indian Football. Earlier this month, the head of Uzbekistan FA noticed and acknowledged the performance of Igor Stimac’s men and they wished to invite India in the upcoming edition of CAFA (Central Asian Footballing Association).

Possible invitations to Indian Clubs in participating for friendlies

The national team’s recent success will also open new opportunities for Indian clubs, reckons the All India Football Federation chief Kalyan Chaubey. According to a report published in The Times of India, he said, “Don’t be surprised to see some of the Clubs from India go and play overseas, like in London, outskirts of London, South African Cities Dubai or Abu Dhabi.”

Furthermore, the President added, “The idea is the more our players play overseas, their fear (playing against top sides) will go. They will get confidence. Clubs have four to five national team players so it helps everyone.”

Building relations with other Football Federations overseas

The player turned Federation President said whenever he travels he makes sure what best can be done for Indian Football. “I’ve been speaking with federation presidents and there are three or four countries where clubs can go and take part in invitational four-club tournaments. Countries with presence of Indian population can help in creating a buzz for a 7-10 day tournament. They all are keen,” he quipped.

Playing against Central Asian and Middle eastern sides

The governing body of football in India is exploring possibilities to play friendlies against higher-ranked sides from central Asia and middle-eastern countries. Kalyan Chaubey has put forward his ambition and said, “I don’t want India to be restricted to SAFF I want to go further, want to explore CAFA (Central Asia), Middle East, Gulf. The more we play, the better exposure our team will get Football is not magic; you can only improve when you play quality opponents. You’ll make mistakes, but there will be a chance to rectify them.”

Invitation to FIFA Council Member for SAFF Final

India who hosted the recently concluded SAFF Championship invited former Qatar FA chief and FIFA council member as the guest of honour in the final at Bengaluru on Tuesday.

“The former Qatar FA president had come to watch the final on my personal invitation. He played a major role when Qatar hosted the World Cup. We are hosting SAFF and we must look beyond that. When you have an opportunity to use the experience of experienced people, that helps,” he concluded.