Kerala mourns the loss of one of its football legends as T K Chathunni, a distinguished former footballer and renowned coach, breathed his last at a private hospital on Wednesday.
The 79-year-old icon succumbed to cancer after a valiant battle.
Chathunni, hailing from Kerala, left an indelible mark on Indian football both as a player and a coach.
In his prime, he proudly represented the nation and Services, showcasing his skills on the football field.
Additionally, he graced the teams of Kerala and Goa in the prestigious Santosh Trophy, leaving spectators in awe of his exceptional talent.
Following his illustrious playing career, Chathunni seamlessly transitioned into coaching, where he truly made his mark.
He took the reins of the Kerala team and steered them through various challenges.
Moreover, his coaching expertise extended to some of the most prominent clubs in the country, including Mohan Bagan, FC Kochin, and Dempo Goa, where he left an indelible mark.
Notably, Chathunni’s coaching legacy shines brightly through his nurturing of talented players, with his keen eye for spotting potential.
Among his protégés, he groomed stars like I M Vijayan, who credits much of his success to Chathunni’s guidance and mentorship.
“I owe everything to him as it was he who made me Vijayan the footballer,” expressed Vijayan, highlighting the profound impact Chathunni had on shaping his career trajectory.
The football fraternity mourns the loss of a true visionary whose contributions to the sport will continue to inspire generations of players and coaches.
T K Chathunni’s legacy will forever remain etched in the annals of Indian football history, commemorating his remarkable journey and enduring influence on the beautiful game.
Also Read: Bumrah’s Brilliance Secures India’s Win In Exciting T20 Clash With Pakistan
