Roy Krishna, Fiji’s captain and one of the Indian Super League’s most recognizable forwards, has signed as the marquee player for Malappuram FC for the Super League Kerala 2025 season. The move marks a significant step in his comeback after a long injury layoff.
Krishna, 38, underwent ACL surgery in December 2024 and was sidelined for almost a year. His last competitive league appearance came in November 2024. After months of intensive rehabilitation, he has rejoined the Fiji national team setup, training at full intensity and featuring in local friendlies as he targets a return to top-level football.
This latest move takes him back to India, where he previously built legendary status in the Indian Super League with ATK Mohun Bagan, Bengaluru FC, and Odisha FC. With the ISL resuming in December, Krishna’s stint in Kerala provides a platform to regain sharpness and match fitness in a competitive environment.
“This move is very personal for me. After my ACL surgery, there were moments when I wondered how long it would take to get back to the level I expect of myself. But I trusted the process, worked hard in rehab both in India and Fiji, and I’m grateful to be back on the pitch with the national team in recent weeks,” Krishna said.
“Signing with Malappuram FC is the perfect opportunity to continue my comeback in a competitive environment. The state of Kerala is known for its love of football, and I’m really looking forward to playing in front of such passionate fans,” he added.
Kerala’s Super League season runs from October to December, with pre-season training starting this week. Krishna will depart for India tomorrow to link up with his new teammates.
Additional context and value:
– Krishna’s return to Indian football continues a long and storied association with the ISL, where he has been a standout figure and a source of experience for younger players.
– The move to Malappuram FC could help raise the profile of the Super League Kerala, leveraging Krishna’s global recognition to draw attention and fan engagement to the league and the club.
– His comeback is being watched closely by fans in Fiji and across the ISL footprint, as many view his resilience as an inspirational example of recovery and perseverance after a major knee injury.
– While his age and the severity of ACL rehabilitation present challenges, Krishna’s commitment to training and prior success at the highest level suggest he could make a meaningful impact if his fitness continues to progress.
Summary:
Roy Krishna has signed as the marquee player for Malappuram FC in the 2025 Super League Kerala season, marking a high-profile step in his comeback from ACL surgery. He aims to regain form in a competitive setting in Kerala as ISL has a December resumption.
Hopeful note:
Krishna’s return underscores the resilience athletes can show after serious injuries and offers a hopeful storyline for fans watching a veteran star re-enter competitive football, potentially inspiring a new generation of players in Fiji and India alike.
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