Kochi, India – The passionate, yet often volatile, fanbase of Kerala Blasters FC has once again erupted in frustration, with many fans drawing stark comparisons to the Indian Premier League (IPL) and even sarcastically remarking, “Even RCB won the IPL title,” highlighting their long-standing wait for silverware. This outpouring of discontent has prompted the club’s CEO to issue a strong appeal to fans to refrain from abuse.
A Decade of Disappointment: The Unfulfilled Promise
Kerala Blasters FC, one of the most widely supported clubs in Indian football, has consistently boasted one of the largest fan bases in Asia, with their “Manjappada” (Yellow Army) renowned for creating an electrifying atmosphere. However, despite their fervent support, the club has endured a prolonged period of underachievement in the Indian Super League (ISL).
Having reached the ISL final multiple times (2014, 2016, 2022), the Blasters have agonizingly fallen short on each occasion, leaving their dedicated supporters longing for a maiden title. This consistent heartbreak, coupled with inconsistent performances and perceived mismanagement, has fueled a deep-seated frustration among the fans.
The IPL Comparison: A Symbol of Hope and Despair
The recent victory of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and the ongoing narrative surrounding their men’s team’s long wait for an IPL title has become a convenient, if painful, analogy for Blasters fans. RCB’s men’s team, despite having a massive following, has also never won an IPL title, creating a shared sense of a “cursed” yet fiercely loved franchise. The sarcastic “Even RCB won the IPL title” comment from Blasters fans encapsulates their growing impatience and the feeling that if even a team synonymous with near-misses can break their duck, why can’t their beloved Blasters?
Recent reports indicate that fan patience has been wearing thin, with some supporters boycotting matches to protest against the club’s management. Banners with messages like “Stop selling, stay buying,” “Scam continues,” and “No more mediocrity” have been seen, reflecting a demand for accountability and better recruitment.
CEO’s Plea: Criticize, Don’t Abuse
In response to the escalating frustration and instances of online abuse, the Kerala Blasters FC CEO has reportedly appealed to the fans to maintain civility and refrain from abusive behavior. This is not the first time such an appeal has been made. Previous incidents have seen players, and even their families, targeted with online abuse following poor performances or controversial incidents.
In the past, fan groups like Manjappada have also issued statements, urging their followers to “criticize, but don’t abuse,” emphasizing that they do not promote bullying or harassment of players or officials. The club has also filed complaints over alleged racial abuse incidents, underlining the serious nature of the issue.
The challenge for Kerala Blasters FC remains twofold: to deliver on the field and finally secure an ISL title, and simultaneously, to foster a healthy and respectful relationship with their passionate, but increasingly exasperated, fanbase. The cry of “Even RCB won” serves as a stark reminder of the immense pressure and expectations weighing on the club.
