Two Premier Futsal seasons in one year is possible: Figo

Admired for his creativity and the ability to get past defenders in style, Figo is regarded as one of the greatest wingers the game has seen. A Portuguese Cup, four La Liga titles, two Spanish Cups, three Spanish Super Cups, one UEFA Champions League title, one UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, two UEFA Super Cups, one Intercontinental Cup, four Serie A titles, one Italian Cup and three Italian Super Cups stand a testimony to the legend’s glorious career. 

Known for his keen interest in developing football through his academies, Figo, who is the city as the president of the Premier Futsal league, said the vision of futsal is to develop the game on a large scale in India. “This is the first platform that put together legends along with futsal players and upcoming talents. The process to develop futsal is long term. Indians are passionate on sports. We hope we can find our place in the market here,” Figo said, on the final day of the league’s Chennai-leg.

The 43-year-old added that there is a possibility of having two seasons of Premier Futsal in one year. “We are looking forward to another season in January. We are here to promote football and we want to try to make this event work,” he added.

Quizzed when futsal can bring attacking to the fore in football, Figo said the two games cannot be compared. “Futsal is a part of different moments of football. The pace and concept is different. We cannot mix the two games. Footballers start by playing futsal as it helps to improve the technique and skills but one game having an impact on the other is far-fetched,” he added. 

Talking about his national team, Figo said he would hope to see Portugal replicate their Euro success on the World stage. “We hope to do it. We need to continue the victory moments,” he said adding that he would love to see Jose Mourinho coach the national team. “He is one person who has the chance to become a coach. I am sure all Portuguese people would be happy to see him there as he is a fantastic manager,” Figo added. 

The former Barcelona and Real Madrid player hoped that his friend, Zinedine Zidane has another good season at Real Madrid’s helm. “I am happy to see him achieve laurels. He was one of the best as a player. I am sure, he must be happy to be in the coach’s role. He won the all-important Champions League. The expectations are high when you coach a club like Real and I hope he has all the possibilities of a good season,” he  concluded.