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Author: KBFC Admin Sporthood

Key Quotes from KBFC’s Pre Mohammedan Press Conference

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Kerala Blasters’ Head Coach Mikael Stahre and Winger KP Rahul addressed the media on Thursday ahead of their away match against Mohammedan SC, set to kick off on October 20th at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan Stadium in Kolkata.

Marking their debut in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024 -25 season, and despite being a new entrant, Mohammedan SC has already made its presence felt with impressive performances against the likes of FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC. The coach revealed that despite drawing their last two away matches, Kerala Blasters are confident going into the game.

THE HUNGER TO WIN

“We know that every game in the ISL is competitive,” the coach stated, emphasising the intensity both teams will bring to the match. “Mohammedan SC has a hunger to prove themselves, but so do we. It’s normal in football to face a team that is equally determined to win.”

LESSONS FROM THE PREVIOUS GAME

The Blasters are coming off a draw in their last two away matches, where they struggled to convert chances into goals. “We had our opportunities, but we couldn’t finish,” the coach noted. “We need to learn from that performance and be more clinical in front of goal against Mohammedan SC.”

CONFIDENCE AFTER PREPARATION

Despite drawing their last two away matches, the Blasters are approaching this game with confidence. “We’ve had good preparation during the FIFA break,” the coach remarked. “We’re looking forward to showcasing our progress and winning in Kolkata.”

CLEAR ROLES REDUCE PRESSURE

KP Rahul highlighted the importance of clarity in their game plan. “The coach gives us precise instructions during training, which helps eliminate confusion on the pitch. When we play as a unit, we can focus on our roles without feeling pressure.”

MENTORING THE NEXT GENERATION

As a senior player, Rahul is committed to motivating younger teammates. “You have to fight for your position, regardless of your time at the club,” he explained. “The player who performs best should play. I also prioritise my physical and mental fitness and mentor younger players on proper care, including sleep and nutrition.”

DEFENSIVE IMPROVEMENTS ARE KEY

The coach acknowledged concerns about their defensive performance, particularly the lack of clean sheets. “While I love clean sheets, the priority is winning,” he said. “We can improve our defence, but we’re not struggling. We’ve only played four games this season.”

Discussing goalkeeper Sachin Suresh, the coach expressed confidence in his abilities. “Sachin is a great goalkeeper coming back from injury. Everyone makes mistakes, but it’s crucial not to repeat them. We trust our players to learn and grow from any errors.”

READY TO FIGHT

With the match just days away, the team is focused on securing a win. “We’re traveling to Kolkata with the sole purpose of winning,” the coach reiterated. “We know it will be a tough game, but we’re ready to fight even harder and play smart football.”

KBFC clinch Chakolas Gold Trophy

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Kerala Blasters FC U15 team emerged victorious in the prestigious Chakolas Gold Trophy Kerala Youth Development Project final, held at the TMK Arena, Vadakkanchery, Palakkad. The tournament, designed to develop grassroots football talent in Kerala, saw the Blasters claim a well-deserved win against Sparrows FC U15, securing the title with a 2-0 victory.

A Platform for Youth Development

The Chakolas Gold Trophy is a key initiative under the Kerala Youth Development Project, organised by the Kerala Football Association in collaboration with Scoreline Sports. The tournament aims to provide young footballers with the opportunity to showcase their talents and gain valuable experience in competitive matches. This season’s competition featured district level league phase followed by final round in U13, U14, U15, U16 & U17 categories, culminating into the much-anticipated final between Kerala Blasters FC and Sparrows FC.

Kerala Blasters FC U15 team demonstrated excellent form throughout the tournament, consistently delivering strong performances. Their journey to the final was marked by impressive victories, setting the stage for the clash with Sparrows FC in the decisive match.

The Final: Skill and Strategy on Display

As the final kicked off, it was clear that Kerala Blasters FC were determined to make their mark. The team, led by Captain Haseeb, displayed impressive organization and tactical discipline. Defenders Joyal, Shaheeb, Haseeb, and Devanandhan formed a formidable backline, ensuring that Sparrows FC had limited opportunities to break through. Goalkeeper Arsal stood as the last line of defence, confidently handling any threats.

The opening goal came early, with vice-captain Shaheeb converting a well-taken free kick to give Kerala Blasters FC a 1-0 lead. Sparrows FC responded with some attacking moves of their own, but the Blasters’ defence, anchored by Shaheeb and Haseeb, held firm, denying their opponents any clear chances.

The Sparrows started the second half and increased their attacking intensity, searching for an equaliser. However, Kerala Blasters FC maintained their composure, controlling the midfield through players like Sreesanth and Rishan. The Blasters’ defence continued to shine, with Shaheeb and Haseeb playing key roles in keeping Sparrows FC at bay.

A decisive moment came in the 60th minute when Kerala Blasters FC capitalised on a quick counter-attack, with Eshaan finishing a swift move to double their lead. This goal sealed the match, as Sparrows FC struggled to find a way past the Blasters’ relentless defence.

As the final whistle blew, Kerala Blasters FC U15 celebrated their 2-0 victory, securing the Chakolas Gold Trophy. The team’s collective effort, tactical discipline, and individual brilliance were key factors in their success.

The Kerala Blasters FC U15 victory in the Chakolas Gold Trophy is a significant achievement for the club’s academy. It highlights the success of Kerala’s grassroots football development programs, which aim to nurture young talent and prepare them for future challenges in the sport.

The team’s performance in the tournament, especially in the final, demonstrates the potential of the young players coming through the Kerala Blasters FC Academy. Their success serves as an inspiration for future footballers in the region and reinforces the importance of youth development initiatives in building a strong foundation for the sport in Kerala.

Luna and Sachin pay the Young Blasters Sporthood Academies a visit

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Kerala Blasters FC has always been at the forefront of football development in Kerala, with a deep commitment to nurturing young talent through the club’s grassroots initiative, the Kerala Blasters FC Young Blasters program. Launched in November 2019, this program has become a platform for aspiring footballers across the state, providing them with a structured, scientific approach to the game.

The academy centers with active participation of thousand of young budding talents are currently active across Kerala with a focus on providing the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the sport, while also instilling a sense of joy that comes from playing football.

In an interactive event, Adrian Luna, the captain of Kerala Blasters FC, recently visited one of the Young Blasters Sporthood Academies in Ernakulam.

During his visit, Luna engaged with the young athletes, answering their questions and sharing insights from his journey in football. He recounted how his passion for the sport began in his childhood, playing on the streets with friends, which resonated deeply with the aspiring players at the academy.

“Football is my life,” Luna remarked, emphasising the importance of dedication and passion in pursuing a career in the sport. He encouraged the young players to find joy in their training and to maintain a positive mindset as they work toward their goals.

The Young Blasters in presence at the event eagerly asked questions about Luna’s preparation for important matches and his training routines. His advice was simple but profound: “The more important thing is that you take care of your body, eat well, and rest,” emphasizing the need for discipline and consistency, not just on the field but off it as well.

One of the most memorable moments came when Luna spoke about his journey with Kerala Blasters and why he chose to join the club. He highlighted the atmosphere at Kerala Blasters’ home games and the support of the fans as key reasons for his decision. “The stadium is my favorite place here in Kerala,” Luna said, underscoring the unique energy and passion that Kerala football fans bring to each match.

Luna also reflected on his injury last year, which was a challenging period for any footballer. He described the frustration of being away from the pitch for four months, emphasising the emotional toll it took on him. Yet, through it all, he stayed focused, working hard to recover and return stronger.

The enthusiasm of the young talents in attendance at the event reflected the positive impact of Luna’s presence, showing how important such engagements are for fostering the next generation of football stars.

As torchbearers of grassroots football development in Kerala, Kerala Blasters FC continues to empower and inspire the next generation, with players like Adrian Luna and Sachin Suresh setting an example both on and off the field. Through initiatives like the Young Blasters program, the Club is building a strong foundation for the future of football in the region, ensuring that the joy of the game is passed down to the footballers of tomorrow.

Ushering in a new era – Abhik Chatterjee

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Kerala Blasters FC has welcomed its new CEO, Abhik Chatterjee, at a pivotal time as the club looks to build on its rich legacy and competitive ambitions. With a wealth of experience from his time with NorthEast United FC, Fateh Hyderabad AFC, and Odisha FC, Chatterjee’s appointment has stirred excitement among fans and football experts alike. His leadership role comes with a clear vision for the club’s growth, focusing not only on the current season but also on long-term sustainability.

In his first interview as CEO, Abhik Chatterjee shared his enthusiasm for the role and the future of Kerala Blasters, offering insight into his strategic goals for the club, the upcoming season, and his commitment to strengthening the foundation laid over the years.

Taking Charge of a New Challenge

Reflecting on his new role, Abhik expressed his excitement about joining Kerala Blasters, recognizing its passionate fan base and strong presence in Indian football. “Joining Kerala Blasters is an immense honour. This club is more than just a football team—it’s a symbol of pride for Kerala and a beacon of footballing culture in the country. I’m thrilled to take on this challenge and contribute to its continued success,” he remarked.

Abhik understands the high expectations surrounding the club from fans and the football community. “I recognise the weight of responsibility this role carries, but I also see it as an opportunity to push the boundaries and take Kerala Blasters to the next level,” he added.

Priorities for the Ongoing Season

Chatterjee outlined a balanced approach that integrates short-term success with long-term planning when asked about his immediate focus for the ongoing season. “The current season is incredibly important for us. Karolis (Sporting Director) and the Head Coach are doing their best to ensure the players are in the best position to compete.

They are also thinking ahead, which is key, and I am sure that everybody is hungry to win titles. I can see the determination and the motivation within them. We need to combine this with structures off the pitch, which will push us closer to holistic success.,” he said.

Abhik also highlighted the importance of creating a winning mindset while staying grounded in the club’s core values. “Our priority is to stay competitive but also to build a team culture that is resilient and adaptable. Football is unpredictable, and the key to long-term success is being collaborative and open-minded while focussing on the principles that are key building blocks.”

Developing a Stronger Connection with the Fans

One of the standout aspects of Kerala Blasters is its deeply loyal fan base, particularly the Manjappada, which has become synonymous with passionate football support in India. Chatterjee sees the club’s relationship with its fans as a key driver of its success. “Kerala Blasters has an incredible fan base, and their energy is unmatched. Our goal is to ensure that they remain an integral part of the club’s journey,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of creating a two-way dialogue with fans. “We need to actively engage with our supporters and give them a sense of ownership in the club’s success. This means being transparent with them and involving them in various aspects of the club, not just on match days but throughout the year.”

While Abhik is focused on the current season, he also has an eye on the bigger picture. His vision for Kerala Blasters extends beyond the present, emphasising the need for sustainable growth and development. “A form of success in football is winning titles which we all want, but to get there we need to create a structure that supports and enhances the pillars the support the football club. We aim to be the best sporting club in India and set standards that will hopefully be industry leading ones.”

Investing in grassroots football is crucial for Abhik. “Kerala has an immense pool of young talent, and we need to nurture that. Our academy and youth development programs will play a critical role in the future success of the club,” he noted.

Looking Ahead

As Kerala Blasters FC embarks on its latest journey under Chatterjee’s leadership, there is a palpable sense of optimism. His clear focus on immediate challenges and long-term goals provides a solid foundation for the club’s future.

“I am somebody who likes to collaborate and listen to my peers and my seniors. KBFC is full of hard working and ambitious people who take great pride in representing the Club. I believe in the same principles that Nikhil (Club Director) does and I admire the work he has put in to take the Club progressively forward. Shushen Vashishth (COO of Kerala Blasters and CEO of Tamil Thalaivas) has helped me settle in quickly and enabled me to bounce ideas off him, which has made things a bit easier. I am looking forward to working with this talented bunch at the Club more closely in the upcoming months.”

“I’m excited for the journey ahead,” Chatterjee concluded. “This is a pivotal moment for Kerala Blasters, and I believe we have the right mix of passion, talent, and strategy to achieve great things. Together, with the fans and everyone involved, we’re ready to take this club to new heights.”

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Kerala Blasters FC appoints Abhik Chatterjee as its new CEO

Posted on by KBFC Admin Sporthood

Kerala Blasters Football Club (KBFC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Abhik Chatterjee as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). His appointment is part of the club’s ongoing commitment to driving growth, enhancing fan engagement, and delivering excellence on and off the pitch.

Abhik brings a wealth of footballing and management experience, having held key leadership roles at Northeast United FC, Fateh Hyderabad AFC, and Odisha FC. Prior to joining the Blasters, he was heading league and technical operations for Super League Kerala. With a proven record of successful leadership and a passion to drive change across the Club, Abhik’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for KBFC.

This appointment also signifies the Club’s strategy to further institutionalise operations as whole-time Director Nikhil B Nimmagadda, who has been the guiding force behind the Club’s operations since the 2020/21 season, will now step back from day-to-day responsibilities and focus on broader strategic objectives. Abhik is set to start his journey with the Club from October 3. He will be working closely with the Sporting Director and management team to further the Club’s footballing, commercial and performance objectives.

Nikhil shared his thoughts on the Club’s latest development, “Abhik’s appointment reflects our unwavering commitment to further institutionalising the Club and fostering growth. He has immense experience, having previously delivered success in various leadership roles. I believe immensely in his capabilities and don’t doubt that the Club will reach greater heights under his guidance. Welcome to the team, Abhik!”

Abhik also expressed his thoughts on joining KBFC, “It is a huge honour to be taking my place alongside all the fans and the stakeholders of Kerala Blasters Football Club. When I had the opportunity to join Kerala Blasters FC, I didn’t hesitate. You only realise how big Kerala Blasters is when you come to the state and spot people from all walks of life donning the famous yellow jersey along-with the enormous passion they pour into the club.

I would like to thank Nikhil and the club board for placing their trust in me, and I will give everything to repay that trust. We want to bring success to the club, and we want to do in a manner that breaks barriers and sets standards, both on and off the pitch.

We want to do so in a structured manner that will enable us to extract the enormous potential that KBFC possesses. We will bend our backs and work with sweat on our brows to bring joy and pride to every fan who supports our beautiful club.”