When it comes to Indian football, a handful of fans might be able to match the passion of Bollywood star John Abraham. The actor once again proved the point in a recent media interaction. John, who co-owns the Indian Super League (ISL) franchise, NorthEast United FC, was asked about his favourite footballer. While many would expect him to name Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, the Tehran actor came up with a bold answer, once again highlighting his love for Indian football.
John Abraham immediately mentioned some players from his NorthEast United team, including high-profile foreigner Alaaeddine Ajaraie. He proudly praised a few Indian youngsters.
Who Is John Abraham’s Favourite Footballer?
As a reporter asked him to name his favourite player, John Abraham namedropped NorthEast United forward Parthib Gogoi, goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh Chahal and some other Indian footballers. Among the foreign players, Alaaeddine Ajaraie was there.
“If you expected any international players, I won’t take their names. Because I’m an Indian and I love my Indian players. And I know more about Indian football. I’m not a guy who understands only foreign football. I love my players, I love my country,” John Abraham was captured saying in a video going viral on social media.
John Abraham’s Bond With Indian Football
John Abraham’s connection with Indian football runs far deeper than his celebrity status. He became a co-owner of NorthEast United FC when the ISL was launched in 2014, helping establish the club as the league’s representative for the eight northeastern states.
The Bollywood actor has consistently spoken about using football to unite the region and develop young Indian talent. His involvement has also extended beyond match-day appearances.
Abraham has backed plans to make the Northeast a major football-development hub, including ambitions for an academy focused on nurturing future India players.
The club’s recent progress has strengthened his association with Indian football. NorthEast United reached the ISL playoffs in 2024-25 and won consecutive Durand Cup titles in 2024 and 2025. Abraham described the club as a passionate, long-term project and stressed its ambition to produce Indian stars for the world stage.
From the work front, John Abraham’s next film is expected to come next year, as the 53-year-old action hero will next be seen in Force 3. He unveiled the NorthEast United new season jersey recently as the ISL 2026-27 campaign approaches.
