Karnataka to Slovenia: Som Kumar Earns Extended Stay as ND Slovan’s No.1 Goalkeeper

While Indian football fans buzz about future OCI/PIO call-ups, one Karnataka-born goalkeeper is quietly proving his worth on the ground in Europe. Former Kerala Blasters shot-stopper Som Kumar has earned a one-year contract extension with Slovenian second-division club ND Slovan, cementing his place as the team’s first-choice keeper heading into next season.

From Loan Deal to Starting Spot

ND Slovan first brought Som in on a half-season loan in September 2025, before making the move permanent in February 2026 from NK Radomlje. Starting the season as backup, he fought his way into the first team and featured in 13 of the club’s final 14 matches, helping steer them to a lower mid-table finish.

Key Career Details

A Long Road Through Slovenian Football

Born in Karnataka, Som left India at just 15 to join NK Bravo’s academy, later progressing through NK Krka and NK Olimpija’s youth ranks before a brief ISL stint with Kerala Blasters in 2024-25. Limited opportunities sent him back to Slovenia, first at NK Radomlje, before settling at ND Slovan.

Why It Matters

With India increasingly looking abroad for overseas-based talent, Som Kumar’s steady progress adds him to the growing conversation around India-eligible players developing in European systems. Fans can follow Blue Tigers scouting updates via the official AIFF website.

For more Indian football stories abroad, check out our Football section on TechnoSports.