Bhubaneswar: Odisha FC have announced the signing of Indian winger Nihal Sudeesh on a two-year contract, securing the 25-year-old until 2028 as they prepare for the 2026–27 Indian Super League season.
Born in Kochi, Kerala, Sudeesh began his development with FA Cochin before progressing through the Kerala Blasters FC youth system. His impressive showings in the Reliance Foundation Development League earned him a promotion to the Kerala Blasters first team for the 2022–23 ISL season, and he made his top-flight debut against Odisha FC in October 2022.
Sudeesh scored his first senior goal for Kerala Blasters in a 3–1 victory over Hyderabad FC in April 2024. That form led to a season-long loan move to Punjab FC in July 2024, where he made an immediate impact by scoring against Odisha FC in a 2–1 win. This fetched him the Player of the Match award. During the 2024–25 ISL campaign, he registered 20 appearances, one goal and two assists for Punjab.
Returning to Kerala Blasters for 2025–26, Sudeesh featured in 10 league matches, scoring once, and also provided an assist in the Super Cup. Known for his speed and versatility, he fits the modern wide-forward role demanded in the ISL.
“I’m very happy to join Odisha FC, and I’m looking forward to this new chapter in my career,” Sudeesh said. “I’ve heard a lot about the club, the team and the fans, and I’m excited to get started. I’ll give my best every day and hopefully contribute to the team’s success.”
The signing is expected to take care of Odisha FC’s need for additional speed and penetration on the flanks ahead of the new season, which kicks off on October 10.