Are you a football freak craving some seasonal football dribbling? If yes, why don't you turn this passion into a profession? Are you wondering how? The answer is enrolling in some of the best football clubs or associations.
To reduce your effort, I have done the research part for you, enabling you to find a suitable place to practise and learn football conveniently. I have shared a list of renowned football clubs in India in this blog. Read the blog until the end.
History of Football in India
The history dates back to British India, where the British soldiers first introduced football. Calcutta (Now Kolkata) in West Bengal is said to be the hometown of Indian football. After cricket, football is the second most popular sport in India, watched, loved, and played by many people.
The first football match was reportedly held between the late 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, i.e., in 1892. In 1937, the All India Football Federation was founded. In 1938, India played the first international match with Australia. During the 1951 Asian Games, India won the first gold medal, and between the 1950s and 1960, the performance peaked.
However, the 1950s and 1960s were considered the golden era of football, during which the country's performance peaked in several international Olympics. During these seasons, India won gold medals in the Asian Games in New Delhi and Jakarta. It also became the first Asian nation in football history to reach the semi-finals in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics.
In 2007 and 2008, the nation's performance improved even more, and it won the Nehru Cup. With this remarkable performance, the country also qualified for the 2011 AFC Asian Cup in Qatar. This team sport enhanced the country's pride, as the football teams were involved, and the clubs showed their beautiful performances in different international tournaments.
Football Clubs In India
Mumbai City FC
Mumbai City FC is one of the most famous football clubs in India. It was established in August 2014 in Maharashtra. The team's head coach is Des Buckingham. Some famous club players are Valpuia, Mehtab Singh, Vikram Partap Singh, Phurba Lachenp, etc. The Mumbai City FC is known as "The Islander."
ATK Mohun Bagan
ATK Mohun Bagan is not only the oldest football team in India but also in Asia. It was established in 1889. It was earlier formed as Mohun Bagan Sporting Club and was renamed ATK Mohun Bagan after ATK owned an 80% stake in the club. Some famous players are Subhasish Bose, the team captain, Vishal Kaith, Anirudh Thapa, and Anwar Ali.
Bengaluru FC
Bengaluru FC is another famous football club in the country. The club was introduced in 2013 and even won the first league in its debut year. The Bengaluru FC is also known as "Blue." Simon Grayson is the head coach of the team, and Sunil Chhetri is the captain. The players in the team are Keziah Veendorp, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Paras Shrivas, and Aleksandar Jovanović. The fans of the football clubs are also known as West Block Blues.
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Chennaiyin FC
Chennaiyin FC is also one of the most famous football clubs in India. It is in the capital city of Tamil Nadu. The team was established in 2014 and is nine years old. Some notable players are Samik Mitra, Ryan Edwards, Ankit Mukherjee, Lazar Cirkovic, Ninthoi Meetei, etc. The nickname of this football team is "Marina Machans."
Kerala Blasters
The Kerala Blasters, also known as the Blasters, is a football club based in Kochi, Kerala. It was established in May 2014. The club's head coach is Ivan Vukomanovic. The players are Karanjit Singh, Hormipam Ruivah, Sandeep Singh, and Jeakson Singh. The club's nickname is Tuskers, a passionate fan base for its team. They are also famously known as Manjapadda or the Yellow Army.
FC Goa
FC Goa is another one of the most famous football clubs in India. The team was established in 2014. The head coach of the club is Manolo Marquez, who has worked with certain famous players, including Brandon Fernandes, Dheeraj Singh, Sanson Pereira, Sandesh Jhingan, etc. The team captain is Carl MC Hugh. This football club's nickname is Club Gaurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are India's Two Legacy Football Clubs?
East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan AC are India's legacy football clubs. They are very old teams, founded in 1920 and 103 years old, respectively. Mohun Bagan was founded in 1889 and is 135 years old.
Which Is the Oldest Football Club in India?
The Mohan Bagan is the oldest football club in India. It was founded in 1889 and is more than 130 years old.
Who Is the Father of Indian Football?
Nagendra Prasad Sarbadhakari is known as the father of Indian football. He was inspired from a young age and forced his classmates to play football in the school compound.
How to Join a Football Club in India?
Getting analysed
Choosing the right agent for you
Selecting the correct type of clubs for you
Join a suitable training institute that can help enhance your skills
Which Is the Best Football Club in India?
Several renowned football clubs in India are known for their extraordinary match performances. Some well-known teams are Bengaluru FC, Kerala Blasters, FC Goa, and ATK Mohun Bagan.
Where Is Football Famous in India?
The states such as Manipur, Mizoram, West Bengal, Punjab, and Goa are known as the powerhouses of Indian Football. The game is more famous here.
To conclude, the football field is evolving rapidly, and there are chances for it to peak in the future. With the initiatives taken by the government, such as the Indian Super League and sustained efforts, there are higher chances in the upcoming days of competing at the broader level with the international teams and taking football to a new era.
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