Pritam Kotal, one of the most reliable defenders in the Indian Super League (ISL), is set to return to his hometown for a special occasion — to play against ISL debutants Mohammedan SC. As a proud Kolkata boy, Pritam takes great pride in having three teams from the city in the ISL and is eagerly anticipating the chance to face the Black Panthers. The Kerala Blasters defender has also expressed his gratitude for the passionate fan support he receives in Kerala, saying it makes him feel at home.
In this exclusive interaction with RevSportz, Pritam reminisced about the influence of his father and uncle on his football career, his journey from being a midfielder to one of the best defenders in the country, and the rumours that swirled during his visit to Kolkata during the last transfer window.
On Kerala Blasters: “They Bring Their Best, and We Have to Be Ready”
Kerala Blasters have had a mixed start in the ISL, with one win and two draws in their four matches so far. Reflecting on their campaign, Pritam was satisfied with the team’s progress despite their early exit from the Durand Cup at the hands of Bengaluru FC in the quarter-finals.
“Our coach always tells us to improve step by step, and I think we’re doing just that,” Pritam said. “If you look at our passing and scoring, we’ve come a long way from where we were last season. We’ve made progress with every game, and I’m confident we’ll keep getting better.”
On Mikael Stahre: A Coach Who Cares On and Off the Field
Pritam had high praise for Kerala Blasters’ new head coach, Mikael Stahre, noting that the Swede’s ability to connect with the players, both on and off the pitch, has made a huge difference.
“Coach Mikael isn’t just about tactics,” he said. “He talks to the junior players, gives them advice on how to grow both as players and professionals. He even asks about our families and makes sure we’re comfortable. It’s not just about football with him — he genuinely cares. That’s what makes him such a supportive coach.”
Facing Mohammedan SC: A Special Homecoming
For Pritam, the upcoming match against Mohammedan SC is particularly significant, as it marks a homecoming for the Kolkata native. He’s also excited about the fact that, for the first time, three teams from Kolkata are competing in the ISL.
“It’s great to see three teams from Kolkata in the ISL for the first time, and as a local boy, that makes me really proud,” he said. “I can’t wait to face Mohammedan SC in front of the home crowd at Kishore Bharati Krirangan, but I know it won’t be easy. They’re a strong side, and we’ll need to be at our best.”
Pritam also emphasised the importance of nurturing local talent: “I’d love to see more local players from Bengal in these teams. It would do a lot for the development of football in the region.”
On the Passionate Kerala Blasters Fans: “Their Support Motivates Me”
Pritam considers himself fortunate to have played for two of the biggest fanbases in Indian football — Mohun Bagan and Kerala Blasters. He shared how the passion of Kerala Blasters’ fans makes him feel right at home.
“I feel lucky to have played for two teams with the best fanbases in India,” he said. “At Mohun Bagan, I connected deeply with the fans, and it’s the same here at Kerala. The fans in Kerala are incredible. Some of them travel 4-5 hours by bus or train just to reach Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on matchday. Their passion motivates me, and that’s why I always try to give my best for them.”
His Father’s Role in His Football Career
Pritam credits his father and uncle for shaping his football career and helping him reach where he is today. He revealed how his uncle’s unfulfilled football dreams became his own inspiration.
“I come from a football-loving family,” he said. “My dad used to take me to local tournaments when I was a kid, and my uncle was also a footballer, though he couldn’t go far. My dad and uncle’s dream rested on me, and they did everything to support my career. I also owe a lot to my childhood coaches, Sanjay Chakraborty and Arup Nag. They were instrumental in my development as a player, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.”
The Truth Behind the Transfer Rumours
During the last transfer window, there were widespread rumours that Pritam was on the verge of signing with one of the Kolkata giants after he was seen in the city. Pritam set the record straight, revealing that he had returned to Kolkata for personal reasons — his father had suffered a severe heart attack while he was at Kerala Blasters’ pre-season camp in Thailand.
“A few days ago, my father had a severe heart attack while I was in Thailand for pre-season,” he said. “When my wife called to tell me, I went into the washroom and cried for 10 minutes. I then spoke to the coach and management, and they were very supportive, allowing me to take 2-3 weeks off to be with my family. I went to Kolkata for that reason, but some people assumed I was there to sign for another club. My priority was my family.”
From Midfielder to Defender: Pritam’s Evolution
Pritam’s journey from a midfielder to one of India’s top defenders is a fascinating one. He recalled how a trial at the U-19 national camp marked the beginning of his transition to defence.
“I started my career as a defensive midfielder,” he said. “I got selected for the Bengal team in the Santosh Trophy as a midfielder, and I was also picked for the U-19 national team in the same position. But during a trial for the AFC Cup, the coach asked if I could play as a right-back, and I decided to give it a try. I even managed to get an assist, and that’s how my journey as a defender began. At Pailan Arrows, under Arthur Papas, I played as a right-back, centre-back, and left-back, which helped me understand each position better.”
On Vibin Mohanan: “He Deserves a National Team Call-Up”
Pritam is full of admiration for Vibin Mohanan, one of Kerala Blasters’ rising stars, and believes it’s time for the young midfielder to get a national team call-up.
“Vibin is one of the finest midfielders in the ISL right now, and I think he deserves a national team call-up,” he said. “He has the potential to be a star for both Kerala and India, and if he keeps working hard, there’s no limit to what he can achieve.”
A Dream to Return to the National Team
Despite his success in club football, Pritam remains determined to earn another call-up to the national team. He believes that hard work and consistency are the keys to achieving this goal.
“My last season wasn’t great, but I’m not giving up,” he said. The most important thing for me is to stick to my routine and keep progressing. My ultimate goal is to return to the national team. I know it’s very competitive right now, but with hard work, I believe I can make it back.”
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