Kolkata: Atletico de Kolkata co-owner Sourav Ganguly has come forward in support of East Bengal and Mohun Bagan. Sourav, who turned 45on Saturday in an exclusive chat to xtratime.in said that he would be more than happy to see the two Kolkata giants playing in the Indian Super League from next season.
“Off course I am in favour of East Bengal and Mohun Bagan and want them to play in the Indian Super League (ISL) because they have been such an important part of Indian football. I know money is a big issue but we ourselves pay a lot of money as franchise fees which are to the extent of 15 crores. So hopefully it’s not the end of the road. It could be 10 teams or 12 teams rather from next season. I really wish East Bengal and Mohun Bagan to find a way out. And I am ready to help find a way out to be part of ISL,” said Sourav at his residence in Behala.
He further added, “Atletico de Kolkata has no problems with East Bengal and Mohun Bagan. These are wrong things which are put across in the media. I am saying on behalf of ATK that we will be more than happy to help the two big clubs and will go out of our way t help them.”
The two time ISL champions have signed former Bengaluru FC coach Ashley Westwood as their technical director. The Kolkata franchise is also in talks with former England international Teddy Sheringham to be the coach of the side.
“Absolutely it is a good move and I wish him (Ashley) all the best. I welcome him to the team and hope he does well for us,” said Sourav.
Lastly the Prince of Kolkata shared his excitement about taking part in a charity football match with Argentine soccer legend Diego Maradona in the city during the month of October. According to Sourav, “It’s good to have him (Maradona) in Kolkata. It is more of seeing him as I don’t think I can ever match his skill. It will be fun and I am looking forward to it.”