Featured BiographyImage source: StarsUnfolded
Quick Info
Date of birth28 April 1983
Age42 Years
BirthplaceMoolamattom, Idukki, Kerala, India
ProfessionFormer Footballer, Football Commentator
NationalityIndian
Marital statusMarried
SpouseByula Pradeep
FamilyDaughter - Ann Jerrica; Son - Adam Gerrard; Parents - Pappachen and Savitri; Sisters - Preethi, Deepthi
Pappachen Pradeep Biography
N. P. Pradeep is a former Indian professional footballer from Moolamattom, Idukki, Kerala, who played as a versatile attacker and midfielder for club and國家
Early life and backgroundNaduparambil Pappachen Pradeep was born on 28 April 1983 in Moolamattom, Idukki, Kerala. Raised in a family that faced financial hardship, he developed a passion for football at a young age. His parents, Pappachen and Savitri, supported his ambitions while he progressed through youth football in Kerala. Pradeep represented Kerala at various youth levels before turning professional.
Career
Pradeep began his club career as a teenager when State Bank of Travancore (SBT) signed him at 17. Initially a forward, he evolved into a midfielder and became known for his left-footed long-range strikes and adaptability across multiple outfield positions. During his spell with SBT he contributed to four Kerala League titles and featured for Kerala’s under-17 and under-21 sides.
In 2006 he moved to Mahindra United in the national league, where he spent several seasons until the club was disbanded at the end of 2009–10. After Mahindra United, Pradeep spent the 2010–11 season with Viva Kerala before moving to Mohun Bagan on a one-season deal. Limited playing opportunities at Mohun Bagan led him to join Dodsal, later known as Mumbai Tigers FC, for the 2012–13 season. A strong season there earned him a transfer to Mumbai Football Club, where he stayed from 2013 until the close of his playing career in 2016.
Pradeep also had a loan spell in the inaugural Indian Super League season, joining Chennaiyin FC in 2014. His experience was valued by the club in its first campaign, though his playing time was limited and his loan ended at season’s close. Mumbai FC was his final professional club, and he retired after the 2015–16 season.
International career
Pradeep made his first appearances for India at youth level, captaining India’s U17, U20 and U23 sides. He debuted for India’s U20s in 2004 and won a silver medal at the 2004 South Asian Games with the U20 team. His senior involvement began with a call-up to the 2005 SAFF Cup, a tournament India won.
Under coach Bob Houghton he was at times used in defense, including as a left-back, before returning to midfield by the 2007 Nehru Cup. The 2007 Nehru Cup was a breakthrough for him internationally: he scored in the campaign, helped India to victory in the final against Syria, and became a regular starter. He repeated Nehru Cup success with India in 2009 and was part of the squad that won the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, qualification that helped India reach the 2011 AFC Asian Cup.
Pradeep played a defensive role for India at the 2011 AFC Asian Cup, delivering noteworthy individual performances despite the team’s group-stage exit. After the tournament, injuries limited his availability for national selection and he did not represent India again before retiring from international football.
Playing style and reputation
Known for his left-footed shooting from distance and positional versatility, Pradeep transitioned from striker to midfield and frequently occupied fullback or wide roles when required. Those technical qualities earned him the informal nickname “Steven Gerrard of India” in recognition of his long-range strikes and influence in midfield.
Post-playing career and other work
After retiring from playing, Pradeep moved into talent identification and media. He worked as a scout for the Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC) and was later appointed as a player scout by Kerala Blasters in 2016. He has also worked as a commentator for the Star Sports network.
Public profile
Pradeep’s career achievements—league titles with SBT, domestic success with Mahindra United, international tournament wins with India and participation in the Indian Super League—made him a well-known figure in Indian football. His return to Kerala after the 2007 Nehru Cup victory was greeted enthusiastically by fans.
Personal life
Pradeep is married to Byula Pradeep; the couple married on 26 December 2008 and later moved from Moolamattom to Kannur, Kerala. They have two children, a daughter named Ann Jerrica and a son named Adam Gerrard. He comes from a family with two sisters, Preethi and Deepthi.
Latest updates
Since retiring he has remained active in Indian football through scouting and broadcast work and has participated in charity matches, including an appearance alongside IM Vijayan to support the family of a player who died during a match in Kerala.
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Recent Work
Appointed player scout for Kerala Blasters in 2016 after working with Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC).
2016Worked as a football commentator for the Star Sports network following retirement from professional play.
Career Highlights
- Signed by State Bank of Travancore at 17 and helped win four Kerala League titles
- Captained India at various youth levels and won a silver medal at the 2004 South Asian Games (U20)
- Scored and played a key role in India’s 2007 Nehru Cup victory; part of the winning squad again in 2009
- Member of India’s 2008 AFC Challenge Cup-winning side that qualified the team for the 2011 AFC Asian Cup
- Played in the inaugural Indian Super League season on loan with Chennaiyin FC
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Pappachen Pradeep born?
Pappachen Pradeep was born on 28 April 1983.
What is Pappachen Pradeep known for?
Pappachen Pradeep is known for former Footballer, Football Commentator.
What is Pappachen Pradeep’s marital status?
Pappachen Pradeep's marital status is listed as Married.
Who is Pappachen Pradeep married to?
Pappachen Pradeep is publicly listed as married to Byula Pradeep.

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