Former Barcelona & Liverpool star, Luis Garcia, joins Atletico de Kolkata in the Indian Super League

The brand new franchise based football tournament in India, inspired by the popular Indian Premier League (cricket), is all set to kick-start post World Cup. Brand new teams have been formed and the franchises are scrambling to get their squads and coaches ready for the event. Atletico de Kolkata, part owned by Spanish side Atletico de Madrid, former Indian cricketer Saurav Ganguly and others, has been the quickest to make its move in the market.

The Kolkata based club already announced their new coach, Bolivian Antonio Lopez Habas, who has previous held the managerial post at Spanish clubs like Valencia, Celta Vigo and various others (including the Bolivian national team). They also announced the signing of Borja Fernandez who has previously played in the first team of Real Madrid and most recently with Getafe.

But the team have now made their biggest signing, announcing ex Barcelona & Liverpool star, Luis Garcia, as their marquee signing for the tournament. The Spaniard who was part of Liverpool’s 2004-05 Champions League winning side, has also previously played for Atletico Madrid. He now becomes the first big name star to join the Indian version of the defending La Liga champions.

Luis Garcia also revealed the logo of Atletico de Kolkata which previously was not seen. The club will wear Atletico Madrid’s colours and play at 120,000 capacity Salt Lake Stadium. Luis Garcia posted this photo & message across his Social Media channels:

“I’m very exited to share with you my new challenge, I’ve decided to join Atlético de Kolkata in the new Indian Super League. Thanks for all your support.“

Luis Garcia had retired from football in January this year after playing for Mexican side UNAM, but makes a return for the Indian Super League.