It was the Round of 16 match between Argentina and France in Kazan. Suddenly, a handsome guy wearing a black suit caught everyone’s attention in the media centre where hundreds of media personnel were preparing for the big match Saturday.
It was none other than Roberto Ayala, who played in three World Cups and captained Argentina for a record 63 matches. The former Valencia defender is working for a TV channel in the World Cup and was present at the media centre along with another of his ex-teammate, Juan Pablo Sorin.
The 45-year old Ayala still looked the same from when he retired after 115 appearances. He still looked like he could play in the field in a competitive game.
In contrast, Sorin looked a bit aged, his face filled with beard, along with his famous long hair. Coincidentally, Ayala is this correspondent’s favourite defender.
This reporter did not miss the chance to meet this legend after the match where Argentina lost to France 4-3, putting to rest another World Cup dream.
After informing him that Bangladesh has a big fan base for him and Argentina, the man, who scored seven international goals in Sky Blue colours, expressed surprise, saying “Oh really? That’s great to hear.”
This journalist also took the opportunity to take a picture and selfie with the man who was at the centre of everyone’s attraction. In addition, this correspondent was lucky enough to get Ayala’s autograph on his match-ticket of the France-Argentina game. The former Argentina defender finished with a smile and wished “best of luck”.
Overall, it was stars galore at the media centre as former Chilean sensation Ivan Zamorano was also present in the scene. He later talked with the media personnel.
Moments like these create a scope for regular people to know about the personal details of these football greats.