In a landmark moment for Indian football, 19-year-old goalkeeper Som Kumar has signed with Slovenian club NK Radomlje, marking a significant leap in his career.
The talented shot-stopper, who has previously played for Slovenia’s NK Olimpija Ljubljana, embarks on a fresh journey in the Prva Liga, the country’s top-tier football league. This move makes Kumar the only Indian footballer with a professional contract in Europe, further solidifying India’s emerging presence on the international football stage.
Table of Contents
A New Beginning at NK Radomlje
Kumar’s transfer to NK Radomlje represents a pivotal chapter in his career. Known for his impressive height of 6’3″ and his sharp reflexes, Som brings with him an innate ability to guard the goal with agility and composure. His previous tenure at Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL) saw him earn recognition for his performances, but his ambition led him to explore opportunities beyond India.
As he transitions to Slovenia, where he spent four formative years earlier, the young goalkeeper is eager to embrace the challenge of playing in Europe’s competitive top flight. In his statement regarding the move, Som shared his excitement, saying, “I am thrilled to join NK Radomlje and take this next step in my career. Playing in a top-flight European league is a dream come true for any Indian, and I am excited to go back to Slovenia and am eager to learn, grow, and contribute to the team’s success. I look forward to meeting the team in training.”
Reflecting on his Kerala Blasters Stint
While embarking on a new challenge with NK Radomlje, Som Kumar also took a moment to acknowledge Kerala Blasters Football Club for the role they played in his development. The 19-year-old praised the club for the support and trust shown in him during his tenure in the ISL. Expressing his gratitude, Kumar said, “I would also like to take this moment to thank Kerala Blasters for showing immense belief in me, giving me the opportunity to represent and play for a prestigious club like KBFC, known for its pure passion.“
He also said, “I had a great learning experience this past season, I also want to thank the management, coaching staff, my colleagues and most importantly the club fans who have embraced me and supported me through the year/season. I learnt a lot from this opportunity, and I will carry these lessons with me to Europe.”
NK Radomlje’s Confidence in Kumar
NK Radomlje, based in Domžale, is well-regarded for its commitment to nurturing young talent. The club has placed its confidence in Som Kumar’s potential, hoping he will make a substantial impact on their squad. Grega Marinšek, the club’s Sports Director, expressed optimism about Kumar’s arrival.
He commented, “Our club is very happy we could successfully sign Som. He’s a talented young goalkeeper who we have been watching since he was playing at Olimpija in Slovenia, we see great potential in Som, and we believe Som’s talent and great character will help raise the level of competition in our team. We are pleased to have signed the youngest Indian professional player from India and hope this will open more development opportunities in the Indian market and could pave the way for more talented Indian players to join us in the future.”
Read More: Joao Felix Joins AC Milan on Loan from Chelsea: A Fresh Start for the Portuguese Star
FAQs
Who is Som Kumar and which club has he signed for?
Som Kumar is a 19-year-old Indian goalkeeper who has signed with Slovenian club NK Radomlje, competing in Slovenia’s top football division, Prva Liga.
What was Som Kumar’s previous club before joining NK Radomlje?
Before moving to NK Radomlje, Som Kumar played for Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL) during the 2024 season.
Why did Som Kumar leave Kerala Blasters?
Som Kumar mutually parted ways with Kerala Blasters to pursue international opportunities and further his career in European football.
What are Som Kumar’s strengths as a goalkeeper?
Standing at 6’3″, Som Kumar is known for his agility, quick reflexes, and excellent shot-stopping ability.
What did NK Radomlje’s Sports Director say about signing Som Kumar?
Grega Marinšek, Sports Director of NK Radomlje, expressed confidence in Kumar’s potential, highlighting his talent and character as valuable additions to the team.
