Terry, Giggs, Berbatov come to KL for 7x7 action
KUALA LUMPUR: EPL legends John Terry, Ryan Giggs and Dimitar Berbatov are in town to get Malaysians to play a new type of football — the seven-a-side game.
Terry, Giggs and Berbatov feel that the 7x7 game suits them perfectly, especially at this stage of their careers.
The trio are playing in the inaugural Zurich Liga 7x7 All Stars, which kicks off at KLFA Stadium today.
"It's a great concept. We're doing something very similar back home," said former Chelsea captain Terry.
"I was speaking to Adam Azman (Liga X CEO) about organising it here. It's a format that works in England, so hopefully this is the start of something we can return to annually."
Terry, who will captain Team Bangsa Bola under Tan Sri Nazir Razak, said the smaller pitch for the seven-a-side game makes it ideal for players who may no longer have the legs they once had.
"The pitch is compact, which is great for us older players. We're looking forward to it," said Terry.
"I think this style of football is exciting. The game has evolved over the last decade, it's slower now than it was during our time, but this format brings a new kind of energy."
Terry also highlighted the format's appeal to younger, digital-savvy audiences. "It blends the worlds of football and entertainment. You have ex-pros, influencers, streamers, and the following is huge," he said.
"Mixing former footballers with social media personalities works. It reaches a wider crowd."
Giggs, who was also in KL two months ago to promote the Manchester United-Asean All-Stars match, said modern audiences are drawn to short, sharp formats.
"We're in an age now where everyone wants things quickly. Look at cricket in 2020, shorter formats are more popular, and other sports are following suit," added the Manchester United icon.
Giggs will turn out for Team Wizards, managed by former sports minister Khairy Jamaluddin. "Khairy's very persuasive," Giggs said with a grin.
"But honestly, we love going abroad and connecting with fans. Myself, Terry, Berbatov, we're always up for it."
Berbatov, who will represent Team Zurich under Zurich Malaysia country head Junior Cho, said this form of football has long been part of his roots.
"Back home in Bulgaria, this type of football has always been popular. Even as a little boy, I played five-a-side, six-a-side, seven-a-side, I still do today," said the former Manchester United and Tottenham striker.
"It's a great format. It forces you to be more technical, especially in tight spaces. It's a great way to sharpen your skills."
Tan Sri Tony Fernandes leads the fourth team who will feature Malaysia's very own Safee Sali in the 7x7 showcase.
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