Over the years, Premier League clubs have found immense interest in increasing their fan base within India, inspired by the gigantic following that football enjoys within the country. Many a time, key players and teams have come to India for tours and friendlies.
Speaking recently, Don McGuire, Qualcomm's Chief Marketing Officer has disclosed the intention to bring Manchester United to India. He added that the record Premier League champions and the team sponsored by Qualcomm's Snapdragon aspire to be principal sponsors for their summer tours and are keen on taking the team to important Snapdragon markets around the globe.
McGuire pointed out that while Manchester United has gone to China before and will go back, the rules in China are a little difficult. However, he added that he was keen on a Manchester United game in China as much as in India.
It has, in the past, often played host to big teams, including powerhouses like Argentina and Bayern Munich, with superstar talent like Lionel Messi, Arjen Robben, and Thomas Muller. More recently, Premier League held Next Generation Cup 2024 in England where youth sides of the Indian Super League, represented by Punjab FC and East Bengal, took part. Punjab FC ended third, beating Everton and Aston Villa.
He also mentioned the prospect for future collaboration, which might be connected with the new stadium for Manchester United. McGuire gave a reassured understanding that Old Trafford is very imperative and historic, but signaled Snapdragon might listen if it involves naming rights or other sponsorship opportunities with technological and innovative enhancements to the stadium and the training ground.
"We're working very closely with them on the technological and innovative restructuring of Old Trafford and Carrington, and as there are opportunities for us to be involved further, of course we will explore this," McGuire responded.
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