Top 5 best footballers from Karnataka

SA Basheer and Isaiah Arumainayagam are highly regarded names in Indian football from Karnataka.

The Indian state of Karnataka is widely known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical monuments. However, the southern state is also known for producing competitive sporting stars in games like cricket, hockey, and track and field.

In terms of football as well, Karnataka has long been a breeding ground for exceptional football talent in India. The former region, part of the Mysore state, has produced several remarkable players representing club and country. Six players in the historic 1948 barefoot squad who played in the London Olympics were from this state.

Here, we take a closer look at the top five footballers from Karnataka who have significantly contributed to the sport.

5. Nikhil Poojary

Poojary is a modern-day footballer from Karnataka who has gained recognition for his performances in the ISL for Bengaluru FC. A good defender with plenty of club football experience, Poojary is known for his defensive rigidity and work rate on the field.

He has plenty of experience, having represented ISL clubs like Hyderabad FC, and has consistently performed in the Indian football circuit. Poojary’s rise in the footballing world inspires many aspiring footballers from Karnataka. His career will be a case study for young footballers to represent both the Blues and the Blue Tigers.

4. Vinith Venkatesh

The Bengaluru FC winger is another notable footballer from Karnataka, the state’s newest big white hope. A versatile midfielder, Venkatesh burst onto the scene and scored the winning goal in his debut game for the Blues.

A player known for his agility, dribbling skills, and playmaking abilities, Venkatesh has a high ceiling in terms of pure footballing potential. In 14 games this season, the 19-year-old has contributed with a goal and two assists. He is one of the promising players that fans will watch in the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) seasons.

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3. Mohan Kumar

Kumar was a formidable defender who played a key role in many domestic and international matches for Karnataka and the Indian national team. His defensive skills and ability to read the game made him a formidable opponent for attackers.

The former Indian Telephone Industries (ITI) defender reached the Stafford Cup final in 1980 and represented India at international tournaments in Malaysia, Afghanistan and South Korea during the mid-1970s. His contributions to Karnataka football continue to be celebrated by football enthusiasts.

2. Isaiah Arumainayagam

Arumainayagam is one of the most accomplished footballers who hailed from Karnataka and played some of the biggest games in India. A gifted player nicknamed ‘Baby Taxi’, he was renowned for his incredible speed with the ball despite his small size.

Arumainayagam was an integral part of the Indian national team and played for one of India’s biggest football clubs in Mohun Bagan between 1961-68. A former Asian Games gold medalist and Durand Cup winner, Orumai is well-known for his leadership on the field and technical prowess, making him one of the most respected players of his generation.

1. SA Basheer

Basheer is one of the forgotten yet pioneering footballers who originated from Karnataka and made a name for himself at a time when Indian football was still in its formative years. A dynamic forward, Basheer was known for his amazing goal-scoring ability and tactical awareness in games.

Basheer represented India at the 1948 Olympics in London and the 1952 Olympics in Helsinki. He also played for several top clubs and was a crucial player in domestic competitions. His impact on Karnataka football is still profound, as he inspired many young players to take up the sport and represent the state.

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