ISL 2024-25: Why Rahul KP can't play for Odisha FC against Kerala Blasters tonight?

Rahul KP had an eventful five-year stint with the Kochi-based ISL club

Rahul KP, who recently made a permanent move from Kerala Blasters to Odisha FC, will be unavailable for tonight’s highly anticipated ISL 2024-25 fixture between the two sides.

The reason behind his absence is a clause included in the transfer agreement between Kerala Blasters and Odisha FC, which prevents him from facing his former team this season. While Odisha FC could field Rahul KP in the match, it would come at a significant cost, a stipulation that both clubs had agreed upon during the transfer negotiations.

Also Read: Rahul KP joins Odisha FC in permanent transfer from Kerala Blasters

Odisha FC‘s owner, Rohan Sharma, took to social media to clarify the situation, explaining that this clause was put in place as a strategic move to avoid paying a transfer fee for Rahul KP and to bring him on board ahead of schedule, rather than waiting until the end of the season.

“It’s a clause we agreed so to avoid paying a transfer fee and to get Rahul now instead of the end of the season. Both sides lost something to gain something. I may not love it, but it’s fair considering Rahul already won us a point” said Rohan Sharma on Twitter.

Sharma acknowledged that while the arrangement might not be ideal for all parties, it was a fair trade, especially given Rahul’s valuable contribution to the team so far.

It’s a clause we agreed so to avoid paying a transfer fee and to get Rahul now instead of the end of the season. Both sides lost something to gain something. I may not love it, but it’s fair considering Rahul already won us a point

— Rohan (@RohanSharma915) January 12, 2025

Rahul KP makes an instant impact

Since joining Odisha FC, Rahul KP has already shown his worth on the field. The Indian winger, a key member of the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup squad, had a solid stint with Kerala Blasters before making the switch. In the ongoing season, he has scored one goal in 11 appearances, and his presence has been impactful.

One of his standout moments came during Odisha’s recent clash against Chennaiyin FC, where Rahul played a pivotal role in securing a point for his team. Despite Odisha being 2-1 down, he made a crucial contribution, assisting in an equalizer. His acrobatic attempt from close range bounced off the keeper and rolled into the net, showcasing his composure and knack for timely interventions.

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