‘Great human being’ IM Vijayan treats me like his own son: Rahul KP
Kerala Blasters FC youngster Rahul KP made known his admiration for senior players like IM Vijayan, Mohammed Rafi, and NP Pradeep, and mentioned how they keep inspiring him.
In a candid chat with AIFF TV, Rahul mentioned how being from the same area as IM Vijayan, him and his family have always been huge fans of the former India captain.
“There are a lot of players who have helped me. Like IM Vijayan, I come from the same place as him. My family and friends are all big fans of him. He stays ten minutes from my home. He is very popular, his name is everywhere, and I still remember watching him on the ground, playing amazing,” the youngster said.
“I personally know him and he has been great to me. He keeps motivating me, giving me positive energy and treats me like his own son. He is a great human being, and we have a good relationship. I am close to him, it is amazing,” the lad from Thrissur shared.
Apart from the former Indian captain, other players like Mohammed Rafi and NP Pradeep hail from the hotspot of Kerala football. These veterans now play an important role in the development of youngsters.
“Rafi bhai (Mohammed Rafi), is my big bro. When you say name a few from Kerala, the list is long. I have always had a good relationship with NP Pradeep, Mohammed Rafi. They have a lot to say, and always give good advice.”
The former India U-17 striker, who played in the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, represented the Indian Arrows for two years, before signing for Indian Super League side Kerala Blasters in 2019. When quizzed on why he signed with the Tuskers, Rahul said, “I am from Kerala. I have seen the club and their performance since I was young. There was a lot of passion from my side for the club.”
“Before joining the club, I used to go watch the matches. It was my dream team to join, and dreamt about playing for them. So, when I got an opportunity and they called me up, I was very happy to sign with them,” a nostalgic Rahul remembered.
Kerala Blasters have been known for their atmosphere during games, thanks to their massive fan base which makes it a wonderful feeling for any player for the yellow army. “There was a lot of emotion in the club – the fan base, the stadium created a different atmosphere. I have felt it when I have played here. I have seen the fans waving, it’s wonderful, and this makes it an amazing feeling to play for them.”
Along with Rahul KP, the Blasters have another young talent in their ranks – Sahal Abdul Samad. Speaking about the duo’s relationship, the attacker said, “We are like brothers. Sahal and I have been roommates and we are good to each other. We challenge each other, and it helps us to improve. It is amazing. As a player, Sahal is amazing. He has a lot of quality and his talent is unbelievable. He is a good human being as well. He has been, and is a good teammate, friend and everything.”
For Trial related updates: Latest trials updates in Mumbai Football
Also Read: “It was my dream to represent FC Goa” – Saviour Gama
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian football
I-League 2: Mumbai Derby turns into a Survival Race Between MH Oranje FC and Kenkre FC.
The final matchday of the I-League 2 is set for an intense showdown as MH Oranje FC takes on Kenkre FC in the Mumbai derby. The match, scheduled for 27th…
Rahul Bheke: Players from the Reliance Foundation Development League are performing really well in the ISL
Mumbai, 26 April, 2024: Mumbai City FC captain Rahul Bheke has appreciated the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) for building a channel of players for Indian Super League (ISL) clubs…
Mohun Bagan Super Giant produce magnificent triumph to storm into second straight ISL final after 2-0 win against Odisha FC
Kolkata, April 28: Mohun Bagan Super Giant emerged triumphant against the Odisha FC by 2-0 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata tonight to win the second leg of their…
MFA / MFA Elite Premier League / MFA Super League
Redefining Mumbai Football: The unique approach of India On Track FC
In a football landscape where clubs often prioritize short-term success over long-term sustainability, India On Track FC (IOT FC) stands out as a beacon of dedication, unity, and unwavering commitment…
MFA / MFA Elite Premier League
MYJ-GMSC Completes Unbeaten Season with Draw Against Millat FC
Kartik Strike in the first half seize’s MYJ-GMSC their unbeaten debut season in MFA Premier League In a high-octane Clash at the MFA Premier League, MYJ-GMSC faced off against Millat…
Mumbai City FC ease past FC Goa to set up blockbuster grand finale clash against ISL Champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Mumbai, April 29: Mumbai City FC set up a finals date with the Mohun Bagan Super Giant after defeating FC Goa by 2-0 in the second leg of their semi-final…
MFA / MFA Elite Premier League
MH Oranje FC Seals Penultimate Game with Thrilling 2-1 Win Over Reliance FYC
Yogesh Kadam’s First-Half Brace Propels MH Oranje FC Toward a Strong Season Finish. MH Oranje FC clinched a significant 2-1 win over Reliance FYC in the penultimate game of the…
SSE BFC to conduct trials for U9 to U17 age group players
SSE BFC Soccer School will be conducting fresh trials this month for players aged below 17 to be part of their football program SSE BFC Soccer Schools is a football…
India Khelo Football Season 3 Trials for Mumbai and Thane are here
India Khelo Football (IKF) is back with Season 3 of its widely acclaimed trials with an aim to cover more than 50 cities this time around. After the resounding success…
Feature / Recommended / Trials
Mastering the Art of Football Trials: Key Pre-Trial Factors to Keep in Mind
Football trials are a critical juncture for aspiring players to showcase their skills and secure a spot in a team. To maximize your chances of success, it’s essential to tailor your approach based on your playing position as well as keeping in mind a few pre-trial factors.
Somaiya Sports Academy to conduct trials for MFA 2nd Division campaign
Somaiya Sports Academy is looking for passionate young football players for the Somaiya Sports Academy Football Team to compete in the MFA 2nd Division League 2023-2024. If selected, you will…
BFC Soccer Schools – Mumbai to conduct trials for U14 & U16 Girls
The BFC Soccer Schools Elite team girls’ trials are coming up in search of talented players from the U14 to U16 (Born 2009 and after) age groups into the club’s…
Opportunity to make the team: U.K.M. Kothrud FC conducts selection trials for girls team
Pune-based U.K.M. Kothrud FC has announced that they will be conducting selection trials for their girl’s team on 15th January 2023 The club welcomes all players to come and showcase…
The Sunday Football League Season 4 is back
The Sunday Football League is back with its fourth season, and it’s shaping up to be the best one yet. With eight talented teams competing at the Kes Kandivali turf, there…
BFC Soccer Schools Elite team trials in Feb
Bengaluru FC launched their Mumbai program last season with the Soccer Schools and Elite programs with its local partner Soccer Schools of Excellence (SSE). Bengaluru Football Club is a professional club…
India Khelo Football Season 2 Trials in Mumbai: A Chance to Kickstart Your Football Career
After conducting trials in 34 cities & villages across India, India Khelo Football is coming to Mumbai to hunt talent on 7th January. India Khelo Football kickstarted its season 2…
MFA / MFA Elite Premier League / Trials
Mumbai Customs to conduct trials for Elite League
Former champions Mumbai Customs will be holding open trials for the upcoming MFA Elite Corporate League (Elite Division) The 2019 MFA Elite Division champions Mumbai Customs are conducting open trials…