Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to skip Al Nassr’s visit to India to play their AFC Champions League 2 game with FC Goa has elicited mixed feelings in the Indian football world. As much as his absence disappointed thousands of fans who had always wanted to watch him play, it also created a bigger debate on the quality of football in India.
Ronaldo’s workload management clause was enabled at age 40, so his travelling duties could be limited, which is a fair choice in the case of an athlete in his last years. However, the no-show had a symbolic meaning in the case of India a reminder that the country, despite the progress achieved in the Indian Super League (ISL), would stay on the global football map as a minor destination.
It had expected an economic boom led by Ronaldo, with local fans, businesses and broadcasters expected to benefit. Hotels were sold, ticket sales were high, and products were all over the internet shops. However, his departure revealed the vulnerability of football passion, which is based on foreign superstars.
The experts indicate that this should act as a wake-up call to the Indian football authorities. Rather than relying on global icons to be validated, India needs to concentrate on long-term structural changes: youth academies, improved scouting networks, and improved standards of competition. Goa’s rich football tradition can enable it to be an example of sustainable development, provided that it is strategically backed up.
Simply, Ronaldo’s absence is more than disappointing; it is a demonstration of football’s present identity in India. To be on the international scene, the country has to change from a spectator of legends to its creator.
