The Short Answer, With a Twist
For a global sports icon, a simple answer is often elusive. While many fans pledge lifelong allegiance to one club, Virat Kohli’s support for European football has been more fluid. In late 2023, he named Manchester City as his favourite club, mentioning
the team had recently hosted him and his wife, Anushka Sharma. However, this is a recent development. For years, his loyalty wasn’t to a specific jersey, but to a specific player. Understanding who he supports requires understanding who he admires most.
The Ronaldo Effect
The one constant in Virat Kohli’s European football fandom has been his unwavering admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo. Kohli has repeatedly stated that he supports whichever club Ronaldo plays for. This loyalty has seen him follow the Portuguese superstar from Manchester United to Real Madrid, and then to Juventus. In an interview with FIFA, he made it plain: “I support Juventus now because of Cristiano. Simple. I support every club at which he plays. He inspires me.” Kohli deeply respects Ronaldo's work ethic, relentless drive, and ability to conquer challenges across different leagues, seeing him as the most complete player. Even after Ronaldo moved to Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr, Kohli has continued to defend the footballing legend against critics, highlighting his ability to perform at the highest level even at 38 years old.
An Investment in Indian Football: FC Goa
While his European club preferences may shift, Kohli's most significant and concrete commitment to football is right here at home. In 2014, he became a co-owner of the Indian Super League (ISL) franchise FC Goa. This wasn't just a celebrity endorsement; it was a strategic move driven by a genuine passion for the sport and a desire to help build India's football ecosystem. He saw it as both a way to promote the game and a long-term business venture. His involvement brought immediate credibility and visibility to the then-fledgling ISL. Under his co-ownership, FC Goa has become one of the league's most consistent teams, reaching multiple semifinals and finals, and in 2020, becoming the first Indian club to qualify for the AFC Champions League group stage.
International Allegiance: Die Mannschaft
When it comes to the international stage, Kohli’s loyalty is clear and long-standing: he is a passionate supporter of the German national team. Nicknamed 'Die Mannschaft', Kohli has publicly cheered for Germany during major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euros for over a decade. He has often posted photos of himself wearing the team's jersey with his name and number on it. This open support has even led to interactions with German football stars. During Euro 2016, midfielder Toni Kroos responded to Kohli's message of support, thanking him and promising to send a gift. This shows a side of his fandom that is rooted in national team dynamics, not just individual players.
A Cricketer's Passion for the Beautiful Game
Kohli's interest in football goes beyond simple fandom; it's deeply connected to his own identity as an elite athlete. He has often spoken about how football was a key part of his fitness regimen and early life, even remarking that he might have pursued it professionally if not for cricket. The crossover appeal is clear. The dedication, tactical thinking, and physical conditioning required in top-flight football resonate with the demands of modern cricket. His admiration for players like Ronaldo is rooted in a shared understanding of the discipline needed to stay at the top. It’s a passion born from a respect for the game's athleticism and the mental fortitude of its greatest champions.
