Thomas Kanamoottil Cherian, the 19-year-old defender and current Indian U-20 Captain, sat down with IFTWC for an exclusive interview. Thomas, who currently resides with his family in Delhi has his family roots from Pathanamthitta, Kerala.
An enthusiastic performer and resilient defender on the field, he is one of the most exciting talents to watch out for, having made the journey from a KBFC fan to a player. His admiration and love for the fans were overwhelming as he waits to set foot at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Thomas talked about how football became his profession stating the challenging scenarios of Indian football.
“I had to prove myself right. Many won’t be ready to do it because they have to prove it from scratch. My mom has always supported me, my dad and my brother as well. My family stood with me. In the end, result matters, for me as well. First, I was not thinking about professional, but in time, I took it that way,” Thomas added.
Thomas, who currently has a contract until 2026, hails from the Gokulam Kerala academy, spoke about the early stages of his professional career.
“I started from Gokulam Kerala FC youth academy. Afterwards, I was called up for the national team. And then I am there for the last four years now,” Thomas recalled.
Once a member of Manjappada Delhi, now donning the Kerala Blasters jersey, Thomas understands the morals of how life teaches you to be respectful of the paths one goes through. He shared his insights about his feelings wearing the inspiring yellow jersey, representing the love and passion of millions.
“I played for them (Manjappada) in the tournament. Playing for the Kerala Blasters is one of the best feeling ever. For me as a professional player, it has been the greatest feeling ever. For this profession, it’s all about playing in front of fans. They are totally passionate about the game, and they give respect. I totally respect them from my heart.”
Thomas is a leader at the back who is technically strong and good on the ball . He is someone who perfectly fits for teams who love to keep possession and build the play from back. He recalls the experiences he had so far with Kerala Blasters in the KPL and Developmental League.
“We have to prove – it’s all about proving ourselves. They have helped me a lot, the management, the staff, the players. I really love them.”
The man from Delhi shared his thoughts on the responsibility of representing the nation, viewing the captain’s armband as a duty rather than just a professional role. He offered insight into his feelings upon becoming the captain of the Indian U-20 national team.
“It was not a sudden decision. For the last three or four months, from the very first day to the last day, the mentality was that we are representing the nation, and you have to respect that, you have to take the lead when needed.”
“There was only positives from the tournament. Everyone is a family member – each one of the staff members and everyone who helped.”
Thomas shared the influence of Reserve Team Coach, Tomasz Tchorz in his professional journey.
“He is a good coach. He is a kind guy and helps you a lot to reach the expected level. He has a really cool personality and I love him.”
Thomas became a “fan” when he was asked about Manjappada and he recalled his experiences and knowledge of how each one of them makes their time and effort to support their beloved club.
“I totally respect each and every one of Manjappada. I know if they have money to eat they come, if not they come up as well. They invest a lot of time for us. When results go bad, I really feel bad for them and I really appreciate each of them for their hard work. “
“I have seen everything and that’s why I respect everyone’s time. The struggle of a train journey. You have to come up to the stadium way earlier. I have seen in front of my eyes fans sleeping on the floors of railway station. So, I am saying this, if I am to play for Kerala Blasters, I will give not 99 or 100, but 101% on the field.”
When he was asked about career opportunities abroad, he mentioned:
“For sure, I will do my best. If it’s in God’s plan, if it says, it’s your time, it will happen and I will give my cent percent afterwards.”
This could be the most ‘memorable’ response of the interview, as he revealed who he considers his role model. His answer might be surprising and confusing to many, especially as he mentioned it with a twisted smile.
“Everyone who reaches the highest level is a model, but for me I consider myself as mine. Everyone has their own struggle, as well as me. For me my role model is Thomas Cherian. For me, that is my confidence.”
To finish off, Thomas had something to say to the fans as he wants each and every one of them to know how he loves and appreciate them for all the hardships.
“For the fans only one thing, I totally respect and really love them from the bottom of my heart. The way they come up, they cheer us, they invest a lot of energy trying. It really means a lot – the sacrifices and spending money to watch the game. For me as a part of Blasters and Manjappada fan or as a Blaster boy, it is the best feeling. They are the best.”
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