Kerala Blasters' likely move to Kozhikode for ISL not Confirmed, Kochi discontinued for Two Reasons

The Kerala Blasters are set to shift their base to the northern part of the state of Kerala, thus shifting from their long-term base in Kochi.

As the Indian Super League 2025-26 season is finally on the verge

of commencement, the team from God's own country have been facing a venue-related conundrum.

Kerala Blasters set to shift Home Base

Since the inception of ISL, Kerala Blasters have been playing their home matches at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, but this season, it is expected to be played at the EMS Stadium in Kozhikode. The historical city of Kozhikode (Calicut) is in line to be the home for the Blasters in their home matches, but the move is not confirmed yet.

Kozhikode move not Confirmed

MyKhel understands that the EMS Stadium in Kozhikode is currently not up to the standards for hosting football matches due to its pitch. The stadium was being used for the Supercross competition, which led to deposition of hundreds of tons of muddy soil, thus engulfing the grass. The stadium remains in a condition not fit to host football matches for now, but Kerala Blasters expect the stadium to be handed over to them by the first week of February.

Kochi discontinued for Two Reasons

Although the JLN Stadium in the Kaloor area of Kochi has been the traditional home for the Kerala Blasters, the change was warranted for two reasons. The primary one is the condition of the stadium, which is not ready for unfinished renovations.

The Kerala Blasters was previously managing the stadium, but it was handed over to a certain organisation who were responsible for bringing Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team to Kerala. The Messi move didn't materialise, and it has kept the stadium in a state of limbo. The LED floodlights have not been installed, while the tunnels and the dressing rooms are also in disarray. Another reason being the financial burden for hosting a match, which is almost double compared to hosting a match in Kozhikode.

Payyanad Stadium an Option

Amid the current issues, the KBFC also have the Payyanad Stadium in Manjeri as the last resort. The stadium hosted the Kerala Super League matches recently and can be used again if the Kozhikode and Kochi options draw blank. Although the stadium in Manjeri is in good condition, the location of the venue makes it difficult due to a lack of public transport and luxurious hotels in the vicinity.

Where does the future lie for Kerala Blasters?

Currently, the Kozhikode Stadium is the primary option for the Kerala Blasters for the Indian Super League season. Although the stadium is not in the ideal situation right now, a KBFC official says that they are positive that it will be playworthy before the start of the season. The Blasters have already started training at their facility in Kochi and have roped in a couple of signings, with another foreign signing on the horizon.