Kerala Blasters FC defender Bikash Yumnam revealed that the support and passion of the club’s fans played a huge role in his decision to sign for the club.

Born in Manipur, Yumnam began his professional career with Indian Arrows in the I-League before spells at Punjab FC and Chennaiyin FC. Yumnam has represented India at various age-group levels, including the U-16, U-19, and U-20 sides. He featured in three Indian Super League (ISL) matches for Kerala Blasters FC following his switch from Chennaiyin FC during the 2024-25 campaign.

The 21-year-old centre-back, who signed a long-term deal with the Blasters in January on a deal running until 2029, spoke to KBFC TV about his early impressions since arriving in Kerala.

“Kerala Blasters FC has been the club I always looked forward (to playing for),” Yumnam said.

“We all know about the fans, the atmosphere, the stadium, that’s what I really admired. I really wanted to play in front of a huge crowd, always. I’ve played for the national team (at the youth level) and whenever I go on tour, everywhere I go, there are Kerala Blasters FC fans. That gave me the motivation to make the decision to join the club,” he said.

Yumnan started both of the games under new head coach David Catala in the Kalinga Super Cup, before their quarter-final exit. The youngster said the team’s growing unity under Catala is a key positive.

“Not only on the field but also off the field, unity is needed,” he explained.

“When I first came, honestly, it felt a bit awkward to interact with all my teammates. But now I feel more comfortable. I know some of the players from before, we’ve played together, so I feel more of this togetherness and unity inside myself. I would say that helps us to get better step by step.”

The defender also spoke highly of his understanding with full-back Naocha Singh, with whom he shares a long-standing rapport.

“I’m enjoying (playing with him) because he’s aggressive. I like him,” Yumnam said.

“As a defender, he’s a side-back I can control. He listens to me also. We have had such a long relationship, so it’s easy to communicate. He’s also from Manipur, so obviously (there’s a connection).”

When asked about the next season, Yumnam stated he is focused on growth, both individually and as a team.

“There’s more into it. I want to get better every day. Even from now on, we want to get better and better to turn our dreams into reality.”