Manchester United want lasting legacy in India through new academy and tourism boost, following Juventus tie

LEGACY: Reds want academy in India

By Dean Wilkins

The world’s biggest football club Manchester United are hoping to build an academy in India to increase tourism connections.

The Reds are due to play a friendly match against Juventus in the country later this year and awaiting an available date to hold the fixture.

And United are hoping to leave a lasting legacy in West Bengal by creating an academy centre as their East Asian expansion continues.

West Bengal sports minister Madan Mitra discussed the situation with United's global sales head Raffaella Valentino.

"She said the team were looking forward to visit Kolkata. Their main interest is to set up an academy here. They also want to develop tourism," Mitra said.

Speaking about the game against Serie A champions Juventus, Mitra added: "The match is very much on. But, we are working out on a date. We want to hold it by August end or in November – after the Puja festivities.”

Permission to hold an international friendly in India is needed at least two and half months in advance but if United decide not to partake in the fixture a Legends XI could be organised as a backup.

"The legends XI will have former stars like Fabio Cannavaro, Luis Figo, Hernan Crespo among others. But we are very hopeful of Man United match and academy here," an AIFF spokesman said.

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