Former Manchester United defender and Premier League champion Phil Jones is set to visit India on April 6 to attend the finals of the third edition of Apollo Tyres’ Road to Old Trafford, a highly competitive five-a-side football tournament organized in collaboration with Manchester United.
The finals will take place in Chennai, following a series of qualifying matches held in Pune and New Delhi. The tournament aims to provide football enthusiasts and amateur players in India with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase their skills.
Phil Jones: A Legacy at Manchester United
Jones, who played a crucial role at Manchester United for over 12 years, made 219 appearances for the club and lifted multiple trophies, including the UEFA Europa League and FA Cup. The seasoned English defender also represented his country in two FIFA World Cups, solidifying his status as an elite footballer.
Road to Old Trafford Tournament Details
The initial rounds of the Road to Old Trafford tournament were held in Pune and New Delhi, where 40 teams competed fiercely for six spots in the Chennai finals. The teams that successfully advanced are:
- Stilton Cafe (Delhi)
- Tajore Cafe (Delhi)
- BP Street (Noida)
- Three Wise Monkey (Mumbai)
- Swig (Pune)
- K-Bar (Goa)
The winning team in Chennai will earn an exclusive all-expenses-paid trip to Manchester, UK, where they will get the incredible chance to play at Old Trafford, the iconic home of Manchester United FC. The Grand Finale of the tournament is set to take place on June 6, 2025, at the legendary stadium.
Encouraging Grassroots Football in India
The third edition of Road to Old Trafford has been open to amateur players, allowing football lovers across India to participate and compete at a professional level. Remus D’Cruz, Head of Sports Marketing and Communities at Apollo Tyres Ltd, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating:
“I congratulate all the teams that have qualified for the finals in Chennai. Competing for a chance to play at Old Trafford, a stadium with an unparalleled legacy, is a prestigious moment for these players. Through the ‘Road to Old Trafford’ initiative, we aim to foster India’s love for football and create a platform where talented athletes can shine. We hope this initiative inspires and empowers young Indian footballers to elevate their skills and reach new heights.”
With the continued success of the tournament, Apollo Tyres and Manchester United are fostering a passionate football culture in India, paving the way for young talents to experience global football opportunities.