Pritam Kotal

Pritam Kotal is the right back player of the Delhi Dynamos, Indian Super League. Kotal was born on 8th September 1993 born in Uttarpara, West Bengal and had an early introduction to football by his father who was an avid fan and player of the sport despite not being able to make a career in it. He inherited his parent’s affinity for footy, and his dedication to it could be seen in the way he prevaricated despite his dire financial status, disregarding typical boyhood concerns such as exams, paucity, etc.

He recalls his days under Anup Nag of Uttarpara Netaji Brigade with extreme fondness. He was a central midfielder back then and even joined Wari AC of the Calcutta Football league. It was in the under 19 trials for the Indian national football team that he segued into the right back player he is now. He admits to having faced a lot of difficulties adapting initially, but he went above and beyond by learning to play both left back and right back and now feels confident of performing in any position in the back.

He attributes this to guidance from both Colin Toal and Anup Nag and also mentions being grateful towards Toal for the shift. Kotal's ability is apparent in the fact that he got promoted to the under 22 India side team. Ironically enough, he did not get into TFA. He does not regret his decision to join ISL; his admiration of Mohun Bagan notwithstanding. He feels that it was the right move for his career and welcomes the exposure to international players such as Davis Trezeguet, Roberto Carlos, Helder Postiga, etc.

He is empathetic that football is a group sport and rapport among the players of a team is imperative. He mentions working rigorously along with his coach Constantine and fellow defenders to ensure they have a flawless game. He anticipates the Asian cup and raves about having an opportunity to play against the Asian Giant UAE.

He is optimistic regarding India’s performance though they have to compete with strong adversaries such as Taiwan, China, New Zealand, and Kenya is not for the fainthearted. After having an impressive season with DDFC last year at the ISL, with one goal and two assists along with a 66% passing accuracy in 14 matches, the versatile footballer is looking forward to an equally good year and to bring up his team top rungs of the table. He is currently training for the upcoming edition of ISL in September end.