A groundbreaking moment for Indian football is on the horizon as the electrifying Odisha FC winger Rahul KP is set to don the iconic claret and blue of English Premier League side West Ham United. The 25-year-old speedster will represent the London club in the high-profile, seven-a-side The Soccer Tournament (TST) in Cary, North Carolina, from June 4th to June 9th, 2025. This landmark move marks a significant chapter for both the player and the nation, thrusting a rising star of the Indian Super League (ISL) onto a global stage alongside some of football’s most recognisable names.
The announcement, which sent ripples of excitement across the Indian football community, will see the Odisha FC Winger Rahul KP team up with and compete against a dazzling array of talent, including Argentine legend Sergio Agüero and former Manchester United winger Nani.
For a player who has steadily carved out a reputation as one of India’s most exciting attacking talents, this opportunity represents more than just a fleeting appearance in a summer tournament; it is a testament to his burgeoning ability and a potential gateway to greater international recognition. The involvement of Rahul Kannoly Praveen in a tournament featuring top European clubs like Borussia Dortmund, Villarreal CF, and Atlético de Madrid is a monumental story, and all eyes will be on the performance of Rahul KP in a West Ham jersey.
Who is Rahul Kannoly Praveen? A Journey Forged in Passion and Perseverance
So, who is the man at the centre of this historic moment? Who is Rahul Kannoly Praveen? It is a story of raw talent nurtured on the streets of Thrissur, Kerala, and honed through the ranks of Indian football. From a young age, his prodigious ability was evident. He first burst into the national consciousness as the top scorer in the Under-14 National Championship in 2013, a feat that earned him a coveted spot at the AIFF Elite Academy.
This early promise culminated in his selection for the India squad for the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, a landmark event hosted on home soil. While the team’s results were challenging, the experience of competing on a global stage was invaluable for the young winger.
His professional journey began with the All India Football Federation’s developmental side, Indian Arrows, in the I-League. It was here that he showcased his blistering pace and attacking intent, quickly becoming a standout player. His performances did not go unnoticed, and in 2019, he made a much-anticipated move to his home-state club, Kerala Blasters, in the ISL. Over five seasons with the Blasters, he became a fan favourite, known for his lung-bursting runs down the flank and his ability to produce moments of individual brilliance. A move to Odisha FC in January 2025 marked a new chapter in his career, where he continued to be a vital attacking outlet.
Player Performance Focus: A Style Built for Excitement
Rahul Kannoly Praveen is a player who gets fans on their feet. Predominantly a right-winger, his playing style is characterised by explosive acceleration, an exceptional work rate, and a willingness to take on defenders. He is a direct and dynamic attacker, constantly looking to stretch the opposition’s defence with his runs in behind. While his final product has been an area of development throughout his career, his ability to get into dangerous positions is undeniable.
Under his current coach at Odisha FC, Sergio Lobera, there has been a noticeable refinement in his game. Lobera’s system, which encourages wingers to stay wide and be creative, seems to suit Rahul’s natural tendencies. His time at Odisha has seen him contribute not just with goals and assists, but also with intelligent movement and a greater understanding of his defensive responsibilities.
Rahul KP West Ham United: A Dream Come True
The significance of this opportunity was not lost on the man himself. In a video released by West Ham United, a beaming Rahul KP expressed his delight: “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.”
His coach at Odisha FC, Sergio Lobera, also lauded the move, recognising it as a major milestone. While Lobera was not directly quoted on the West Ham move, his earlier comments on Rahul’s potential highlight the player’s quality: “Rahul is a player with a great attitude and a desire to improve. He has the speed and the skills to make a difference in any game.”
Winger Rahul K P becomes the first Indian footballer selected to play for Premier League club West Ham United in the upcoming The Soccer Tournament in the United States.#RahulKP #Soccer #IndianFootball #TST #WestHamUnited #TheSoccerTournament pic.twitter.com/ymgyfUJU4V
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) May 24, 2025
A Nation’s Pride
The news of Rahul KP’s West Ham United adventure has been met with a wave of excitement and pride among Indian football supporters. Social media has been abuzz with messages of congratulations and encouragement, with fans from across the country expressing their eagerness to see one of their own on such a prestigious platform.
Prominent Indian football journalists have hailed the move as a significant step forward for the sport in the country. It is seen not only as a personal achievement for Rahul Kannoly Praveen but also as a reflection of the growing talent pool within the ISL. The prevailing sentiment is one of hope – that this will pave the way for more Indian players to gain international exposure.
A Rare Opportunity
While several Indian players have had training stints with foreign clubs, the opportunity to represent a Premier League giant, even in a seven-a-side tournament, is a rare and momentous occasion. It provides a platform for Rahul KP to showcase his skills to a global audience and to a host of scouts and technical directors from some of the world’s biggest clubs.
The Soccer Tournament itself is a spectacle, a winner-takes-all event with a $1 million prize. The fast-paced, high-octane nature of the 7v7 format could well suit Rahul’s explosive style of play.
A Stepping Stone to Greater Heights?
The immediate impact of this experience for Odisha FC Winger Rahul KP will be invaluable. The opportunity to train and play alongside seasoned professionals and against top-tier opposition will undoubtedly contribute to his development. A strong showing at the TST could open doors to further opportunities, potentially leading to trials with European clubs.
For Indian football, the implications are equally significant. Rahul KP’s participation will shine a spotlight on the ISL and the talent it possesses. It serves as an inspiration for a new generation of aspiring footballers in India, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, the dream of playing on the global stage is attainable. As he prepares to trade the blue of Odisha for the claret and blue of West Ham, Rahul Kannoly Praveen carries with him the hopes and aspirations of a nation. His journey to North Carolina will be followed with immense interest, and the Indian football faithful will be cheering him on every step of the way.
