Five Indian cities which deserve more football at club level

These cities could become new hubs of football and further promote the sport in India. 

India and its people passionately support football and follow the game. There is a massive fan-following among for foreign national and club teams. In recent times, domestic clubs have seen a rise in support as well. With the advent of the Indian Super League (ISL) and football teams focusing towards the grassroots development, the country is taking strides in the right direction.

However, more needs to be done in order to develop the game. One of the key steps is to tap into the isolated regions and remote parts of the country which have decent football following. Apart from Goa, West Bengal, northeastern and southern states, there are many other cities who have a passionate fanbase.

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The following five cities need more footballing action. They need a platform that promotes local talent and utilities the existing pool of players.

5. Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad has a lot of potential when it comes to football. It is one of the cities which does not feature in either the ISL or the I-League. The most populous city of Gujarat has a passionate fanbase that turns out in heavy numbers during the national team’s matches. 

They also have a good infrastructure like the EKA Arena, which has top-class facilities. The stadium in the multi-sport complex has previously been host to the Indian football team’s games. Officials should look at Ahmedabad as an opportunity to spread the game in a new state. 

4. Siliguri

West Bengal is a famous football hub in India. It is widely known as the state in which football could rival cricket in terms of popularity. However, most of the football action centers around the capital city, Kolkata.

Siliguri is famous for tourism due to its pleasant weather and proximity to Darjeeling. The weather conditions are perfect to play football and develop local talent, who may not have access to Kolkata. Bhaichung Bhutia is also planning to launch a football academy in the city, according to reports.

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3. Shillong

Shillong has a very popular football club hailing from the city in Shillong Lajong. However, there is no other outlet at the national level apart from this club for the local talents. Shillong is situated in the northeastern part of the country and is the capital of Meghalaya. There is an abundance of talent in the region which needs a platform.

St. Edmunds School in Shillong announced holidays during Euro 2020 matches, such is the passion in the city for the game. The Shillong Premier League has over seven teams playing in it. With more effort, the outgoing talent can help the local clubs flourish. 

2. Malappuram

Malappuram is a city based in Kerala. The southern state is fast-emerging as the next football hub in the country. The local talent is rich and the Kerala Premier League is growing in stature. Lots of talent is recruited by top clubs at the national level every year. One look at the fans of Kerala Blasters, an Indian Super League club, tells of the level of passion among the populace for football. 

Malappuram has a long history in connection with football. The British Army used to have a camp in the city and would play football along with the locals. Kerala United is a focal point for the city’s football ambitions. Since United World Group’s takeover of the club, the umbrella firm which also controls Sheffield United in England, expectations are rising. The city could re-emerge on the national stage through Kerala United’s resurgence. 

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1. Kolhapur

Kolhapur, situated in Maharashtra is another candidate city that could be the next football hub in the country. The city has a historical connection with the sport and it is followed religiously today. The city has a strong fanbase that follows South American football and other top foreign leagues. As a result of Argentina’s triumph under Lionel Messi’s leadership, there were jubilant scenes of celebration. Videos of locals celebrating Argentina’s triumph went viral across the internet.

Kolhapur has FC Kolhapur City which plays in the Indian Women’s League. The state of Maharashtra lost FC Pune City after their decline and don’t have a lot of representation in club football. The authorities need to revitalize the football spirit in the state and the city of Kolhapur could certainly lead the revolution.

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