5 legendary footballers who nearly joined the Indian Super League
We are nearly approaching the fourth edition of the Indian Super League and this time it's even bigger with two more teams included in the 5-month football extravaganza. Many big International footballers have played in the glamorous competition and much more will follow. But there are players who were about to set foot in India, but eventually did not.
Let us have a look at footballers who nearly joined the Indian Super League:
#5 Julio Baptista
Brazilian Julio Baptista was the latest player to be linked with the Indian Super League, with Kerala Blasters FC showing interest in the attacking midfielder for the upcoming season which is about to kick off on November 17.
The South American rejected the offer from the Kerala-based team, and was in close talks English club Bolton Wanderers but eventually failed to sign the contract.
Baptista has played for European powerhouses like Arsenal, Real Madrid and Roma. Popularly known as “The Beast” for his physical stature, he made his presence felt on the football pitch and is an asset to any team which he plays for.
The Sao Paolo-born footballer played 37 matches for his national team making his debut during the 2001 FIFA Confederations Cup. After being dropped from the 2006 World Cup, he was recalled for the 2007 Copa America and scored the opening goal in the final against Argentina in a 3-0 victory to clinch the title.