Chennai: Uruguayan footballer Diego Forlan, who is the marquee player for Mumbai City FC in the ISL, is part of a unique legacy; he is the third straight generation from his family to have won the Copa America title for Uruguay.
“It was a great feeling when I won the Copa America. I think it is the only family around the world to have three generations who have won an international tournament. It is a wonderful achievement by the family,” said the 37-year-old.
Considered the greatest Uruguayan footballer, Forlan also showered his father with praises as the best manager he’s had. “I’ve had really good managers in my career but the one I looked up to was my father. He used to play, he used to coach and he is always talking about football. I still learn so much from him,” remarked Forlan.
The Uruguayan also touched on Manchester United who he used to play for early in his career and still holds close to his heart. “It is a great club and it is going through a transition phase. Sir Alex Ferguson and some of the good players left at the same time which was a huge blow to the club. It takes time for the club to rebuild and it is a competitive league, so it is not easy,” said Forlan.
The striker already has plans for what he would be doing once he retires from professional football.
“I’m starting to coach and would take up management. Once I retire I would like to do something related to the sport,” added Forlan. Having had a professional career which has spanned over two decades, Forlan has been around the world playing at different leagues before making it to the ISL. “It was a good offer and good league. I heard it was improving and I have watched some of the matches which made me want to come here,” added Forlan.
