Chennaiyin FC and Bernard Mendy: A lasting football love story

Mendy, who stopped playing football after his stint with Chennaiyin FC in ISL Season 3 last year, now plies his trade in poker, which he learned during his time at Ligue 1 side PSG. The three-time capped French international made 39 appearances for Chennaiyin FC, which won the title in Season 2 of ISL.

“It hurts to see him not represent Chennaiyin FC but I am happy that he is back in the city to support our team. I hope he will turn up to cheer us every year,” said Ravi, an ardent CFC fan since Season 1 of ISL.

His love story with the fans dates back to October 2014, when he scored a blistering bicycle kick against Kerala Blasters in the first-ever ISL game in the city. “The fans here (Chennai) are amazing and are much closer to the players when compared to other teams,” said Mendy. 

“We had a chance to meet Mendy before the game. It was an overwhelming experience to meet our superstar. He encouraged us to support the team through its thick and thin,” added Pradeesh, who had a brief chat with Bernard Mendy ahead of the FC Goa game last Sunday. The former Chennaiyin FC skipper was recently spotted in the VIP box alongside co-owners Abhishek Bachchan and Vita Dani during the match against FC Goa. 

“It feels good to be back home and I am very glad to be here. My three years in Chennaiyin FC were fantastic. When I go back to Paris, I miss India. It was horrible to sit in the stands and not contribute for my team on the pitch,” added Mendy on appearing as a special guest for CFC’s encounter.