Malappuram: Indian football legend I.M. Vijayan has described Malabar as the “Mecca of Indian football,” while reflecting on his retirement from the police force. Speaking to Mathrubhumi News on the occasion of his departure from service, the former Indian national team captain expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the region and his career journey.

Vijayan, who served as an Assistant Commandant with the Malabar Special Police (MSP) in Malappuram, was given an official farewell on Friday by the police department. The day also marked his birthday, adding a personal significance to the occasion.

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“It is a great fortune to have retired from the MSP,” said Vijayan. “It was Malabar that made me I.M. Vijayan. I played the most number of Sevens tournaments here. In fact, it was through Sevens football that I entered the police force. So, retiring from the MSP holds special meaning for me.”

He went on to challenge popular notions about Indian football’s heartland. “When asked about the Mecca of Indian football, most people would probably say Kolkata. But I would say it’s Malabar,” Vijayan affirmed.

“Though I have worked in many places, the kind of freedom I enjoyed here was unmatched. That’s because people here understand football. They would say, ‘It’s I.M. Vijayan, let him go and play,’” he added, recalling the support he received during his service.

Much like his footballing career, his time in service too had its challenges, he noted. “There were crises in service just like in football, but I overcame them and moved forward,” he said.

I.M. Vijayan concluded by saying he would continue to stay involved in football-related activities even after retirement.