Chennaiyin FC are back from their month-long pre-season tour of Italy. The players, despite arriving in the wee hours on Tuesday, were welcomed by over 150 passionate fans at the airport. The supporters brought flags, garlands and custom-made banners, and were in full voice while greeting the players with chants.
The players were overwhelmed by the grand reception and were delighted to return ‘home’ before the ISL season kicks off on October 3.
Chennaiyin’s marquee player Elano Blumer was elated with the welcome. “I have no words to describe how I feel. This is incredible. We can only thank the fans by performing well on the pitch. I can’t wait to play in front of all of them at the Marina Arena.”
Ethiopian striker Fikru Teferra said, “The fans were absolutely fantastic. I am a new player but they treated me as if I have been playing for them for years. I am grateful for their support and really excited to score many goals for them.”
Indian midfielder Harmanjot Singh Khabra said, “I am delighted to be back in Chennai and thankful to the supporters for this grand welcome. We want to win the trophy for them this time.”
Few more players and the head coach, Marco Materazzi, will be reaching the city in the next 48 hours with training commencing on Friday.
For about a month, Chennaiyin’s pre-season training base was at Stadio Ellera, Corciano, Perugia. The 2014 ISL league stage toppers faced local teams during the preparatory phase.
Chennaiyin FC defeated Ortana 2-0 and ASD San Donato Tavarnelle 5-1, but lost 2-1 to Gualdo Casacastalda and 2-0 against Unione Sportiva Arezzo.
Chennaiyin FC will face defending champions Atletico de Kolkata in their season opener, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on October 3.
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