Former Kerala Blasters star Rahul KP set to play for West Ham United in USA

Add as a preferred source on Google

Indian footballer and former Kerala Blasters star Rahul KP is set to represent Premier League club West Ham United at The Soccer Tournament (TST), a 7-a-side competition in USA.

This is a historic moment, as Rahul becomes the first Indian player to participate in this tournament, that also for the prestigious English club.

Who is Rahul KP?

Rahul Kannoly Praveen, popularly known as Rahul KP, is a 25-year-old winger from Thrissur, Kerala. He started his football journey with the Kerala state team and later trained at the AIFF Elite Academy. He made his professional debut with Indian Arrows in 2017 and then played six seasons with Kerala Blasters, making 81 appearances and scoring 9 goals. In January 2025, he joined Odisha FC in the Indian Super League.

In the 2024-25 season, Rahul played 8 times for the Juggernauts since his move and scored 1 goal and managed 1 assist.

Rahul has represented India at various youth levels, including the U-17 team at the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup. He made his senior India debut in September 2022 and has earned seven caps for the national team so far.

What is The Soccer Tournament (TST)?

TST is a winner-takes-all 7v7 football tournament with a prize of $1 million. The 2025 edition will have 48 teams in 12 groups, with clubs like AFC Bournemouth, Villarreal CF, Borussia Dortmund, and Atlético de Madrid participating. West Ham United is among them, and Rahul KP will feature in their squad.

West Ham highlighted Rahul's skill set, calling attention to his tricks and speed, which are perfect for the dynamic 7-a-side format.

In a video shared by the club, Rahul KP said, "Hello, Hammers fans, it's Rahul KP here. I'm excited to play for West Ham United at TST this summer. See you soon. Come on you Irons."