TG Purushothaman Takes Historic Role as Odisha FC Head Coach
In a significant development in Indian football, former Kerala Blasters coach TG Purushothaman is set to become the new head coach of Odisha FC for the upcoming season. This appointment marks a historic moment, as Purushothaman will be the first Keralite to be appointed as a full-time head coach of an Indian Super League (ISL) club.
Mutual Departure and New Contract Details
Kerala Blasters announced on Thursday that they have mutually agreed to part ways with Purushothaman. Following this, Odisha FC has stepped in to offer him a one-year contract, which includes an option to extend for an additional year. This move comes as Odisha FC seeks to rebuild after the departure of former coach Sergio Lobera last November.
Breaking Barriers in Indian Football
While other Keralites like Bino George and Shameel Chembakath have previously served as interim head coaches in the ISL, Purushothaman's appointment is groundbreaking. It represents the first direct appointment of a Keralite as a permanent head coach by an ISL club, highlighting a shift in recognition and opportunities within the league.
Purushothaman's Perspective on the Challenge
Speaking about his new role, Purushothaman expressed enthusiasm and determination. "I consider this a huge challenge. Many said that moving to a club like Odisha, which is facing several off-field issues, involves an element of risk. But I see it as a different kind of challenge," he stated. His positive outlook underscores his readiness to tackle the obstacles ahead.
Odisha FC's Current Situation and Purushothaman's Credentials
Odisha FC is the last club to formally begin operations for the new season, and they face a rebuilding phase. Most of their foreign players have already departed, with Spanish defender Delgado currently being the only foreigner in the squad. This presents a unique challenge for Purushothaman as he takes the helm.
Purushothaman's reputation soared last season when he served as an interim coach for Kerala Blasters alongside Tomasz Tchórz, following Mikael Stahre's exit. His adept handling of a turbulent period earned him widespread praise across the league. Additionally, he completed his AFC Pro Licence last year, making him fully eligible to coach from the touchline and adding to his professional credentials.
Looking Ahead to the Season
As Purushothaman prepares to lead Odisha FC, all eyes will be on how he navigates the team's challenges and leverages his experience to foster success. His appointment not only signifies a personal achievement but also paves the way for greater diversity and representation in Indian football coaching ranks.
