Former Bulgarian footballer Dimitar Berbatov wishes to see an Indian footballer playing for English giants Manchester United someday in the future. The striker played 149 matches for the Red Devils and scored 56 goals as he guided them to two Premier League titles and as many UEFA Champions League finals.

It was towards the end of his career that he joined Kerala Blasters FC in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) and played nine matches for them. During his stay in India, Berbatov observed the domestic structure in India and according to him, there is a pool of untapped talent in the circuit.

“When I was in India, I used to wonder why can’t an Indian player make that jump from India to the European Championship? That would be a great success, in my opinion,” during a promotional event, as reported by Sportstar.

“Hopefully, a senior Indian player can one day make the transfer to United. Even if you come from India and the football there is not up to the European level, you need to believe in yourself. Don't be shy or think that everyone is better than you. Believe in yourself. Go with the mindset that you can succeed,” added the forward, who scored 48 goals for the national team.

Berbatov played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and steered the Manchester side to remarkable victories. The Portuguese legend returned to Old Trafford after a decade, in 2021 and has been impressive throughout, pushing Berbatov to set Ronaldo as the example to follow for aspiring Indian footballers.

“I was telling the young players in India that they need to work hard, otherwise nothing will happen. The best example of this is Cristiano Ronaldo, who is working so hard at United even though he is so talented and we all see the results,” stated Berbatov.