Mumbai: Aditya Tare, an Arsenal fan since childhood, came face to face with the Premier League trophy in Mumbai during the ongoing Trophy Tour. Speaking to JioStar, the JioStar expert talked about the club’s first league title in 22 years, the friendly rivalry with Manchester City supporter and fellow expert Abhishek Nayar, and why he thinks Arsenal can defend their crown.
A dream come true
Tare called the moment a dream come true. He grew up supporting Arsenal and remembers watching the Invincibles go through the 2003-04 season unbeaten. The wait for another title was long, with several near misses along the way, so last season’s triumph brought huge relief. Standing beside the trophy, knowing what it means to the club and its fans, felt surreal, and he said he is happy and proud of the team.
Banter with Abhishek Nayar
Tare said the Mumbai cricket dressing room has always had plenty of football banter, with many Manchester United fans around and Nayar a City supporter from the start. He admitted it was hard being on the back foot for so long while City dominated, but said Arsenal and their fans now have the bragging rights. On a more serious note, he called City a terrific club that always keeps the pressure on title challengers, and expects another tough race this season. Both clubs have made a good start, but he believes Arsenal will win back-to-back titles.
On captain Martin Odegaard
Tare praised Odegaard for the way he carries himself on and off the pitch and said he commands plenty of respect. As an attacking midfielder, Odegaard works hard going forward and also commits to defensive duties. Tare said he leads by example.
How he became an Arsenal fan
Tare played football for his school and grew up in the late 1990s, when Manchester United dominated and Arsenal usually finished second or third. He has always liked underdogs, so while his school friends backed United, he chose Arsenal. He recalled the 1997-98 title win, when Arsene Wenger was in just his second season, and said the attractive “Wengerball” style of play is what made him fall in love with the club.
Message to Arsenal fans in India
Tare said fans waited 22 years to see Arsenal lift the trophy again, and their patience was finally rewarded last season. He believes winning becomes a habit once you start, which leads to back-to-back titles. Drawing on his time with the Mumbai Indians in the IPL, he said consecutive championships are a privilege few get to experience. With Mikel Arteta as manager, he feels this Arsenal side has what it takes to dominate for years, and he expects many happy seasons ahead for the club and its supporters.
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