John Abraham: Within the ISL, everyone looks up to NorthEast United

NorthEast United FC owner John Abraham believes that his franchise will be the first in the Indian Super League (ISL) to break even.

He further stated that within the ISL, everyone regards NorthEast United’s philosophy and model in high regard and hence, are being mooted as the ideal franchise.

“NEUFC will be the first team in ISL to break-even. This is the fourth season of ISL and we will break-even in fifth or sixth season. So, it is just one or two more seasons," Abraham said at a press conference in Guwahati.

“Within the ISL, when someone talks about template, then they say look at NEUFC. We are working on economy of scale. We are working at the grass root and with local boys. We also prefer local sponsors,” he mentioned.

Abraham pointed that the club has entered a partnership with Neroca FC and Shillong United with a long term vision in place.

"We have a long-term vision. We are here for very long term. We have already tied up with two clubs in Shillong and in Manipur. We have shortlisted kids and will house them in a residential academy at Shillong, where all their needs, including education will be taken care of.

"I am also the brand ambassador of Arunachal Pradesh. Very soon something very very exciting coming up there. It is about football. NEUFC is not just a club. It is a platform to reiterate the voice of North East," the actor said.

Summarizing his thoughts on Indian football at large, Abraham backed domestic football to enjoy a mass following in the years to come.

MORE:
Indian Super League: NorthEast United in negotiations with Rehenesh, Rowllin Borges
| NorthEast United FC's 2017 ISL Draft details: Lalrindika Ralte, Halicharan Narzary, Nirmal Chettri among signed
| Indian Super League: NorthEast United set to appoint João de Deus as head coach
| Indian Super League: NorthEast United FC retain Rowllin Borges and Rehenesh TP

“Indian football still has to develop. Foreign players are coming up and it is exciting for Indian players. Infrastructure has to be developed. If you ask me, football is not cricket yet, but it will be new cricket in a period of time,” he concluded.