The news of Brazilian football legend Pele coming to India broke earlier this month. But the football fans in India did not know that he is equally excited about visiting the country after 38 years.
The firs time that Pele had come to India was way back in 1977 when he played a game for New York Cosmos against Mohun Bagan. That match had ended in a 2-2 draw at the famous Eden Gardens.
Pele, on Friday, left a message for the Atletico de Kolkata (ATK) and rest of the Indian football fans that he is eagerly waiting to watch the first home game of the defending champions at the Saltlake Stadium on 13 October.
Pele also said that he is looking forward to watch Atletico de Kolkata's 'Fatafati Football' as well.
"Hello, I am very happy to attend the Atletico de Kolkata first home match. I look forward to visit the Saltlake Stadium and meeting the players and the fans. Fatafati Football," Pele said in a video message. The video was shared on the official YouTube channel of Atletico de Kolkata on Friday.
The Kolkata-based franchise is eagerly waiting for the Brazilian legend to grace the occasion of their first home match, which is against Kerala Blasters. Atletico de Kolkata co-owner and RPG group chief Sanjiv Goenka told the media that there are some activities lined up to honour the football legend and they will also host a private lunch for Pele and the players ahead of the match on 13 October.
"He'll be here for two days and there will be a series of activities with him. There's going to be a very select, very special and very small private lunch with him. You will see him on more than one occasion.
"Pele will be here for our first home match and he will sit through the entire 90-minute duration to cheer ATK. He's going to spend time on the pitch," Goenka said.
Atletico de Kolkata management said in a media release that Pele will also interact with the reporters a day before the match.
