It's impossible that a country like India is not on world football map: Arsene Wenger

Arsene Wenger believes India's football can develop quickly with the right talent development scheme and involvement of the country. He is confident that India can make its mark on the world football map in the near future.

Legendary coach Arsene Wenger says "it's possible" to develop Indian football "in the very short time" and he cannot imagine the sport evolving without the involvement of the Asian country.

The encouraging words from the former Arsenal manager came ahead of the Indian team's World Cup Qualifier against Qatar on Tuesday.

Wenger, who is currently the chief of global football development, FIFA, visited the All India Football Federation (AIFF) headquarters on Monday and had an interaction with the heads of a select group of academies from across the country.

"I would say I was always fascinated by India. My target is to improve football in the world. And it is impossible that a country like India, 1.4 billion, is not on the football world map," Wenger said.

"I believe you have huge assets, fantastic qualities that make me very optimistic about what you can do here.

"It is absolutely fantastic to have that opportunity. And with my team, we are really highly motivated to help this country develop in the game. I'm convinced that it's possible in the very short term." Wenger emphasised on how a well-oriented talent development scheme can change the face of the game in a country.

"I was in Japan at the start of their football in 1995. In 1998, they were at the World Cup. So that means it is possible. You have to start early.