Reports: Arsenal legend Thierry Henry to line up alongside Robert Pires at FC Goa next season?
A fair number of formidable former Arsenal players like Robert Pires, Freddie Ljunberg and Nicolas Anelka are plying their trade in the Indian Super League (ISL) this season. But there come none more formidable than Thierry Henry, Arsenal’s record goalscorer with 228 goals, and he could be seen lining up for FC Goa in the ISL next season, according to L’Equipe.
If reports are to be believed, Pires will become player-manager for FC Goa next season, with current coach and Brazil legend Zico being a hot favourite for the India manager’s role, leaving room for Henry to take over from Pires as the marquee player of the Virat Kohli co-owned franchise.
The ISL has received quite a bit of encouragement until now with each game getting good attendances, and Henry’s arrivial will undoubtedly boost the league’s popularity even more. While Henry’s glory years are well and truly beyond him, his ability to have a positive impact on the ISL cannot be underestimate?d.
Ferdinand and Pizarro – the next big superstars of ISL?
Reports have also indicated that Manchester United stalwart Rio Ferdinand and Bayern Munich striker Claudio Pizarro are also considering moves to the ISL next season, which will result in a massive upward shift in the quality than there is currently.
Ferdinand is currently playing for QPR in the Premier League after leaving Manchester United in the summer following an illustrious 12 year career with the Premier League giants. Being 35, he has naturally struggled to cope with the constant pressure that comes while playing for a small team and might be on the lookout for a move elsewhere.
Pizarro, meanwhile, has struggled to find a regular place in one of the strongest teams in Europe currently, but will add a touch of class to the ISL without doubt given his instinctive goal scoring prowess.