Chelsea legend Terry backs small-side football

The Star

4 days ago

the Liga 7X7 Zurich matches. John Terry. 19 JULY 2025 —CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
PETALING JAYA: Chelsea legend John Terry has thrown his support behind the rising wave of five-a-side and seven-a-side football tournaments that blend social media influencers, streamers, and former professionals, calling it a refreshing evolution in the global football landscape.
Speaking before the start of the Liga 7x7 All-Stars tournament at the Cheras Football Stadium yesterday, Terry praised the growing trend that has gripped fans and players alike around the world.
"First of all, it's a great concept. We're doing something very similar back home, called the Ballers League,' said the former England international.
"Speaking to Adam (founder of the league Adam Azman) and the guys here organising it, the format works. Hopefully, this is the start of something we can come back to annually and keep building on. It's a great idea."
With small pitches and modified rules, the format caters not just to up-and-coming talent but also to former players like Terry, who still relish the competitive edge without the physical toll of the 11-a-side game.
"The pitch is quite small, which is nice for us older players,' he joked.
"So yeah, I'm looking forward to it."
Beyond the appeal to retired professionals, Terry was particularly enthusiastic about how the inclusion of digital creators has transformed how fans engage with the sport.
"This format and this style of football are very exciting. The game's changed over the last 10 years - it's slower than when we played - but the eyes we can get on it now with streamers, YouTubers, and social media influencers is massive.
"A mix of ex-footballers and influencers works. The events are getting big followings and that helps to grow the game differently."
Turning his attention to his beloved Chelsea, Terry expressed optimism about the club's direction heading into the 2025-2026 season, especially after the team's triumph at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
"Well, I think it's exciting. The club have a lot of players at the moment and I'm sure there's going to be some movement in the market still,' he noted.
"But listen, it's good to go and win the Club World Cup over in America. That bodes well for the season."
Terry, who captained Chelsea through one of their most successful eras, emphasised the importance of regrouping ahead of the Premier League restart.
"Hopefully the players can get some rest now and come back ready to go again. As a Chelsea ex-player and a Chelsea fan, it's an exciting time to be a Chelsea supporter."