Pritam Kotal Embraces New Mentor Role at Chennaiyin FC
Chennaiyin FC's seasoned defender, Pritam Kotal, is scripting a fresh chapter in his storied career by shifting from leading experienced squads to guiding a youthful core. The decorated Indian footballer, who has clinched nearly every domestic honor including the I-League and Indian Super League titles, now finds himself in a pivotal mentoring position at his new club.
Contrasting Leadership Roles: Mohun Bagan vs. Chennaiyin
Comparing his tenures, Kotal highlighted the distinct dynamics. "They are two different teams with different roles and expectations," he explained. "At Mohun Bagan, the squad is full of experienced players who know how to handle situations. But here at Chennaiyin, we have a lot of young players."
He elaborated on his current responsibilities: "Chennaiyin were lacking in some places and that's why they brought me here. My role now is to guide them, how to behave on the field, how to play. The responsibility has changed, but the aim remains the same: to win trophies and become champions."
Praising Fellow Defenders and Young Talent
When asked to pick the best among current defenders, Kotal refrained from singling out one, instead acknowledging his strong partnership with Sandesh Jhingan and mentioning Rahul Bheke. He also lauded 21-year-old midfielder Maheson Singh Tongram, predicting a bright future: "He is a different-level player. If he continues like this, he can soon be in the senior national team. He is humble, hard-working, and has a very bright future."
Adapting to Chennaiyin's New Playing Style
Under head coach Clifford Miranda, Chennaiyin has adopted a possession-based, build-up approach this season. Kotal noted the challenges: "When you start something new, there will be a lot of obstacles. The style is different, we are trying to build from the back."
He contrasted this with former coach Owen Coyle's simpler, second-ball football, emphasizing the new style's benefits: "Now, it's about building from the back and making decisions on the ball. It requires more thinking, but it will help players grow and adapt to modern football." He urged fans for patience as the team gears up for upcoming matches.
Emotional Ties to Mohun Bagan and Career Reflections
Kotal's connection with Mohun Bagan runs deep, rooted in family and childhood dreams. "Playing for Mohun Bagan was a dream. More than me, my father was proud," he shared, revealing he chose Bagan over Dempo SC due to emotional ties.
Reflecting on his evolution from a scoring right-back to a center-back, he said: "I used to play as a right-back, now I mostly play as a centre-back. So, scoring opportunities are limited from corners. But if I get a chance, of course I would love to score again."
Despite multiple ISL titles, Kotal holds early successes dearest: "The first ones are always special, winning the I-League with Mohun Bagan and the SAFF Cup, beating Afghanistan 2-0 in the final."
Fan Culture and Concerns Over Kerala Blasters
Kotal praised the growth of fanbases across India post-ISL, noting: "In Kolkata, you are either Mohun Bagan or East Bengal from birth. But now, after ISL, every state has its own fanbase, Kerala, Chennai, Goa, Odisha. That is the biggest positive for Indian football."
However, he expressed concern over reduced turnout at Kerala Blasters FC, where he previously played: "It's not good for football. Kerala always had massive support, but recently the numbers have dropped. I don't know the exact reasons, but the club should respect the fans. They are very loyal, whether the team wins or loses." He also suggested the management could have handled the team better during his tenure.
National Team Aspirations Remain Strong
Kotal remains motivated to reclaim his spot in the national team. "The goal is still to return to the national team. I didn't get enough game time earlier when I was in Kerala, but now I am playing regularly for Chennaiyin," he stated.
He emphasized his commitment: "Selection is not in my hands, but I will keep improving every day. Everyone's dream is to play for the national team. It is still the same as before." This unwavering focus underscores his dedication to Indian football's future, both as a mentor and a player.
