Kerala Blasters FC roped in young Indian goalkeeper Som Kumar for the upcoming season of the Indian Super League (ISL 2024-25). The 19-year-old has penned a long four-year deal with the Blasters, which will keep him at the club until the end of the 2027-28 season.
Born in Bengaluru, Kumar began his football journey at a young age. His potential was quickly recognized, leading to stints at Boca Juniors Academy and BYFL Academy. His European adventure started in 2020 with NK Bravo in Slovenia, where he showcased his talents in an underage summer tournament in Italy, most notably against Bologna U17 where he came to prominence with a dynamic performance in front of the nets.
Kumar’s next move was a loan spell at NextGen Liga Club NK Krka, where he helped the U17 team secure a third place in the league. His consistent performances earned him spots in both NK Bravo and NK Krka’s U19 teams, eventually leading to his contract with Slovenian first-division side NK Olimpija Ljubljana, in February 2023. Kumar’s abilities and determination to succeed soon earned him a regular starting role at the club, culminating in his selection for the UEFA European Under-19 Championship squad.
Som’s young international career has been equally impressive. A former member of India’s U16 and U17 teams, he made significant contributions during the India U16 team’s tour to the UAE in 2021. He then played a crucial role in the India U20 team’s success at the 2022 SAFF U-20 Championship in Odisha, where his performance in the semi-final against the Maldives and the final against Bangladesh earned him the Best Goalkeeper award for the tournament.
In 2023, Kumar was part of the squad for the AFC U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers in Kuwait and later contributed to India’s victorious campaign at the 2023 SAFF U-19 Championship in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Speaking on the occasion, Sporting Director Karolis Skinkys said, “Without intention to create any pressure on him, but I can positively say that Som is one of highest potential players in his generation. I’m happy he believed in the Kerala Blasters project and decided to come back from abroad. Som has right basics of football, correct mindset and he’s very mature for his age. All these points makes me believe that he can learn every day and have a bright future in KBFC.”
Som Kumar said, “I am excited to join Kerala Blasters and look forward to contributing to the team. This is a great opportunity for me to grow as a player and I am eager to give my best for the club and its passionate fans.”
Som Kumar becomes the first signing of the Club this summer. The Blasters previously announced contract extensions of defender Naocha Singh and Club captain Adrian Luna.
