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What’s the story?
Indian Super League outfit Kerala Blasters are planning to build their own stadium in near future. Kochi based outfit’s owner Nimmagadda Prasad told Kerala based local newspaper, Malayala Manorama that they are in plans to build a stadium for the team.
In case you didn’t know...
Kerala Blasters are a professional Indian Super League team based in Kochi who have been two-time runners-up in the franchise league. The club are owned by Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, businessman Nimmagadda Prasad and a few more famous names from the Telugu film industry.
The heart of the matter
Blasters owner Prasad on Thursday revealed that the franchise would consider having an own stadium in the future. He also opined that Kerala Blasters may get better facilities and practice ground after the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
He also confessed that the team will undergo pre-season in Spain. The preparatory camp before their expedition to Spain will be in Kerala. The camp for Indian players is soon expected to begin on the 11th of September in Hyderabad. The foreign players will join the team during their Spanish jaunt. The 55-year-old businessman further surmised that the fresh-looking Blasters have the firepower to surpass their last year’s runner-up finish.
He also asserted optimism on newly appointed head coach Rene Meulensteen. When asked about him, he opined that the new head coach Meulensteen, who was at the helm of Manchester United’s youth sides in the past, boasts a wealth of experience in coaching young talents. His vast experience would definitely benefit the youngsters.
What’s next?
Two time runner-ups Kerala Blasters also have plans to introduce club merchandise to strengthen the club’s connection with their steadfast fans.
Prasad also admitted that the Blasters has suffered a colossal loss of ?80 crores in the recent three years. He said: "It will take at least 5 more years to turn profitable. It’s natural and we are aware of the fact that investments in the Indian sports sector should be made with a long-term perspective. Moreover, the franchise was not established with the sole aim of making money. Sport is a factor for social empowerment."
Author’s Take
Kerala Blasters' management has done a fine job so far. Realising the fans need, they have brought some of the fine talents of Europe to their arsenal. Thinking with a long-perspective, Kerala Blasters are all set to make theirs the best club in the country. With context satisfying the need of Indian football, Kerala Blasters can soon achieve their targets.
