Kerala Blasters FC

Koldo Obieta: Composed, Clinical, Crucial

Three goals in two games. Koldo Obieta, emerging as the Blasters’ new focal point.

The Blasters’ new number 9 has made a swift, unmistakable impression. Koldo Obieta — a 1.87m, traditionally built centre-forward with years of experience in the Spanish lower leagues — arrived in Goa and did exactly what arrivals are signed to do: score decisive goals and give his side a clear attacking identity. In the opening two Super Cup fixtures Obieta had already found the net three times, including a late winner on debut and a composed brace in the following match.

The profile: what kind of striker is Obieta?

Obieta is a classical centre-forward rather than a nomadic, multifunctional attacker. He combines the physical attributes expected of a number 9 with intelligent movement in the penalty area: strong in the air, decisive in short spaces, and clinically opportunistic inside the box.

His career across Spain’s competitive tiers has forged a player who times runs and finishes with calm – traits that were on full display in Goa, where Obieta’s late header and quick double in the next fixture underlined both aerial proficiency and an eye for space between defensive lines.

Impact on the pitch: decisive, complementary, immediate

His goals have directly translated to points — a match-winner in a tight opener and a brace that helped the Blasters secure control and confidence in their second game. Beyond the scoreboard, his presence changes the way opponents defend: centre-backs are drawn out of position, wide defenders are pulled inside to contest aerial balls, and midfield runners find the pockets that surface as a result.

That structural shift has allowed creative players — notably Adrian Luna and the Blasters’ wide men — more freedom to influence the game. Match reports from the Super Cup make that influence clear: Obieta’s finishes have been the clean, clinical end to well-crafted team sequences. 

Thoughtful integration, not a hurried gamble

What is most striking about Obieta’s early run is how carefully he has been introduced to the squad. This has been a considered process: training camp work that began in early October, measured minutes in the opening Super Cup tie, and an obvious tactical plan to use his strengths.

This careful calibration has allowed Obieta to slot into the Blasters without destabilising the side’s balance.

The verdict: immediate returns, promising foundation

Three goals in two competitive games is, in any cup tournament, a statement. For the Blasters it is also the early return on a recruitment decision that looks pragmatic and well-judged. Obieta has shown that he can finish, he understands his role, and — equally important — he has been integrated into a system that accentuates his qualities while preserving the team’s broader identity.

Blasters U14s Clinch Dreams Cup 2025/26 Title

The Blasters’ U14 side capped off a remarkable campaign by lifting the Dreams Cup 2025/26 title, delivering a performance marked by discipline, maturity, and total control from start to finish. Across four fixtures, the young Blasters exhibited an exceptional blend of attacking intent and defensive organisation, completing the tournament without conceding a single goal.

The group began their journey with an emphatic 10–0 victory over Byzantine FC, setting the tone with fluid attacking play and relentless energy. Their quarter-final against Sacon FC brought a more measured approach, yet the boys maintained their standards, securing a confident 3–0 win to advance.

In the semi-final, the U14s showed their sharpest edge yet, overpowering United FC Cochin in a commanding 7–0 performance. The result reflected a collective identity built on pressing, quick transitions, and intelligent movement.

The final saw the Blasters face a resilient Lords FA side. In a more tactical and tightly contested contest, the squad displayed patience and composure, eventually sealing a professional 2–0 win to lift the trophy. The victory encapsulated the team’s growth—balancing attacking flair with defensive discipline, and maintaining their standards even under pressure.

Across the tournament, the boys demonstrated admirable togetherness and resilience, with the defensive unit standing out for its consistency. To go the entire tournament without conceding is a testament to their work ethic and understanding of the game at such a young age.

The club congratulates the entire U14 squad and coaching staff for their dedication and excellence throughout the Dreams Cup campaign. Their success reflects the pathway being built at Kerala Blasters—one that nurtures talent, instils strong values, and prepares young players for the next level.

Kerala Blasters Sign Portuguese Attacker Tiago Alves

Kerala Blasters FC have confirmed the signing of Portuguese attacker Tiago Alexandre Mendes Alves, adding international flair and proven versatility to their squad ahead of the upcoming season. The 29-year old arrives from Japan’s J1 League, bringing with him valuable experience from one of Asia’s most competitive football environments.

Born in Coimbra, Portugal, is best known for his ability to operate across the frontline. While primarily a left winger, Alves has also excelled as a centre-forward and attacking midfielder, providing Kerala Blasters with tactical flexibility in the final third.


Alves began his footballing education in Portugal’s esteemed youth systems, progressing through clubs such as Sporting CP, Académica Coimbra, and Os Belenenses before making his senior breakthrough with Varzim SC. After establishing himself in the Portuguese leagues, he took his talents abroad in 2019, signing with Olimpia Grudziądz in Poland’s I liga, where a strong run of form secured him a move to Piast Gliwice in the country’s top division.

His most prolific spell came in Japan, where he flourished with Montedio Yamagata in the J2 League, recording 24 goals in 67 appearances across two seasons. Short stints with Botafogo-SP in Brazil and Tokyo Verdy in Japan followed, further broadening his experience across different footballing cultures. His arrival is expected to provide both goals and creativity, while opening up exciting new possibilities for the Blasters’ attack.

Sporting Director, Karolis Skinkys: “We are very pleased to welcome Tiago to Kerala Blasters. He is a player who has consistently demonstrated his quality across various leagues and we believe his versatility and attacking instincts will be a strong addition to our squad. We believe his presence will bring more unpredictability and balance to our forward line as we prepare for the challenges ahead.”

Tiago Alves Said: “I am very excited to begin this new chapter with Kerala Blasters and to have the opportunity to play while taking on a new challenge in Asia. I look forward to giving my best on the pitch, working hard and scoring goals.”

Kerala Blasters FC CEO, Abhik Chatterjee: “Tiago’s signing reflects our commitment to building a dynamic squad for the season. His ability to adapt across multiple attacking roles, combined with the experience he’s gained across Europe and Asia, makes him a perfect fit for our footballing philosophy. We believe he brings not just quality, but also a winning mentality and the kind of creativity that can unlock games. As we push towards our goals this season, I believe Tiago will be a vital part of our offensive setup and a player our fans will enjoy watching.”

Alves is known for his versatility, capable of stretching defenses from the wing or operating centrally in advanced roles. Right-footed, he combines quick movement, intelligent positioning, and clinical finishing. With his skill set and international experience, Tiago Alves is set to be a key asset for Kerala Blasters’s attacking unit and will join the team shortly as pre-season preparations continue.

Blasters Drawn in Group D of AIFF Super Cup 2025-26

The Blasters are all set to begin their campaign in the Super Cup 2025, which will take place in Goa from October 25. The tournament draw, conducted earlier today, placed the Blasters in Group D alongside Mumbai City FC, Hyderabad FC, and Rajasthan United FC.

KBFC will kick off their journey on October 30 against Rajasthan United FC at the Bambolim Stadium. This opening fixture provides an opportunity for the team to make a strong statement and set the tone for the group stage. On November 3, Kerala Blasters will return to Bambolim to face Hyderabad FC. The group stage will conclude with a highly anticipated clash against Mumbai City FC on November 6 at the Fatorda Stadium under the lights. This contest could prove decisive in the race to secure a spot in the knockout stages.

Under the guidance of Head Coach David Català, Kerala Blasters will approach the Super Cup with confidence and determination. Català has brought a clear identity and tactical direction to the squad, blending experience with the energy of young talents, and the team will look to carry this momentum into the tournament. With the fixtures now confirmed, anticipation is building as the team prepares for three crucial encounters.

Kerala Blasters FC Announce White Gold as Official Gold Buying Partner

Kerala Blasters FC is proud to announce White Gold, India’s leading gold buying company, as our Official Gold Buying Partner for the upcoming 2025-26 ISL season. White Gold has emerged as India’s most reliable gold buying company, offering transparent, dependable, and customer-friendly solutions nationwide. As part of the partnership, White Gold will collaborate with Kerala Blasters on all community initiatives, further enhancing their social impact.

We are thrilled to partner with Kerala Blasters FC, one of the most iconic and passionately supported football clubs in India,” said Babu C Joseph, Managing Director of White Gold. “At White Gold, our mission has always been to engage meaningfully with the communities we serve. This collaboration gives us an exciting opportunity to connect with the vibrant spirit of Kerala and its deep-rooted football culture. We are proud to support the team in the upcoming season and share in the collective hope of seeing KBFC achieve great success on the field.”

Kerala Blasters FC CEO Abhik Chatterjee also welcomed the new partnership, saying: “We are equally excited to welcome White Gold into the KBFC family as our Official Gold Buying Partner for the 2025-26 season. This partnership reflects our shared values of trust, excellence, and community focus. With White Gold on board, we are confident that this collaboration will create a significant impact both on and off the field.”

The Head of Commercial & Revenue of Kerala Blasters FC, Mr. Reghu Ramachandran, welcomed White Gold by saying, “We are excited to welcome White Gold as our Official Gold Buying Partner for the 2025-26 season. At Kerala Blasters, we have always valued partnerships that create genuine impact for our fans and community. With White Gold’s strong presence in South India and their commitment to trust and transparency, we believe this association will not only strengthen their brand presence but also enhance our community initiatives, benefiting both the brand and our passionate fan base.”

White Gold, established in 2017, is one of India’s most trusted gold buying companies, with a strong presence across South India through more than 60 branches. Known for its transparent processes, real-time pricing, and customer-friendly services, the brand has built a reputation as a reliable destination for individuals seeking the best value for their gold. Backed by advanced technology and a strong commitment to trust, White Gold continues to expand its footprint while serving lakhs of satisfied customers.

മലയാളിതാരംശ്രീക്കുട്ടൻഎം.എസ് 2027  വരെകേരളാബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സിൽതുടരും

മലയാളി താരം ശ്രീക്കുട്ടൻ എം.എസ്  കേരളാ ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്‌സുമായി പുതിയ കരാറിൽ ഒപ്പു വെച്ചു, 2027  വരെ ഉള്ള കരാറിൽ ആണ് ഒപ്പു വെച്ചിരിക്കുന്നത്.  തിരുവനന്തപുരം സ്വദേശിയായ ശ്രീക്കുട്ടൻ കേരളാ ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സിന്റെ അക്കാദമി സിസ്റ്റത്തിലൂടെ വളർന്നു വന്ന താരമാണ്.

2022-ൽ കേരളാ ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്‌സിന്റെ റിസർവ് ടീമിനൊപ്പം ചേർന്ന ശ്രീക്കുട്ടൻ, ഡെവലപ്‌മെന്റ് ലീഗ്, ഡ്യൂറണ്ട് കപ്പ് എന്നിവയുൾപ്പെടെ വിവിധ ടൂർണമെന്റുകളിൽ മികച്ച പ്രകടനം കാഴ്ചവെച്ചു. റിസർവ് ടീമിലെ തകർപ്പൻ പ്രകടനം അദ്ദേഹത്തെ 2023-24 സീസണിൽ സീനിയർ ടീമിൽ എത്തിച്ചു. ഫസ്റ്റ് ടീമിനൊപ്പം പരിശീലനം തുടർന്ന ശ്രീക്കുട്ടൻ, ഈ വർഷം നടന്ന സൂപ്പർ കപ്പിൽ ടീമിന് വേണ്ടി രണ്ട് മത്സരങ്ങളിൽ കളിക്കുകയും, മോഹൻ ബഗാനെതിരെ ഒരു ഗോൾ നേടുകയും ചെയ്തു. കളിക്കളത്തിൽ വേഗതയും ശാരീരികക്ഷമതയും എപ്പോഴും നിലനിർത്തുന്ന ശ്രീക്കുട്ടൻ, പെട്ടെന്നുള്ള മുന്നേറ്റങ്ങളിലൂടെ ഗോൾ നേടാൻ കഴിവുള്ള ഒരു താരമായാണ് വിലയിരുത്തപ്പെടുന്നത്.

കരാർപുതുക്കിയതിനെക്കുറിച്ച്കേരളാബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സ്എഫ്‌സിയുടെസിഇഒഅഭിക്ചാറ്റർജിതന്റെസന്തോഷംപങ്കുവെച്ചു:

കേരളബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സ്എഫ്‌സിയിൽ, നിലവിലെഇന്ത്യൻഫുട്ബോൾഉള്ളഎന്ത്വെല്ലുവിളികളോമറിച്ച്പ്രതീക്ഷകളുടെഭാരമോഎന്തുതന്നെയായാലും, യുവതാരങ്ങളെ, പ്രത്യേകിച്ച്കേരളത്തിൽനിന്നുള്ളവരെവളർത്തിക്കൊണ്ട്വരികഎന്നഞങ്ങളുടെഉദ്യമത്തിൽഞങ്ങൾഉറച്ചുതന്നെനിൽക്കുന്നു. കഠിനാധ്വാനത്തിലൂടെയുംസ്ഥിരമായപ്രകടനത്തിലൂടെയുംവളർന്നുവന്നഒരുകളിക്കാരന്റെഉത്തമഉദാഹരണമാണ്ശ്രീക്കുട്ടൻ. അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെവളർച്ചയിൽഞങ്ങൾവളരെയധികംഅഭിമാനമുണ്ട്, ഞങ്ങളോട്ഒപ്പംയാത്രതുടരുന്നഅദ്ദേഹത്തിനുംകുടുംബത്തിനുംഎല്ലാവിധആശംസകളുംനേരുന്നു.”

കേരളാബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സിന്റെസ്പോർട്ടിംഗ്ഡയറക്ടർകരോലിസ്സ്കിങ്കിസ്ശ്രീക്കുട്ടന്റെവളർച്ചയെക്കുറിച്ച്:

കഴിഞ്ഞകുറച്ച്വർഷങ്ങളായിഞങ്ങളുടെറിസർവ്ടീമിനൊപ്പംവളരെക്ഷമയോടുംഅച്ചടക്കത്തോടുംകൂടിവളർന്നുവന്നകളിക്കാരനാണ്ശ്രീക്കുട്ടൻ. കളിയിൽവളരെഊർജ്ജസ്വലതയും, പെട്ടെന്നുള്ളആക്രമണങ്ങൾനടത്തുന്നതിലുംഒപ്പംസ്വാഭാവികമായഗോൾസ്കോറിംഗ്കഴിവുമുള്ളഒരുകളിക്കാരനാണ്അദ്ദേഹം. സൂപ്പർകപ്പിൽമികച്ചപ്രകടനംനടത്താൻഅദ്ദേഹത്തിന്അവസരംലഭിച്ചു, അതിലൂടെപരിശീലകൻഡേവിഡിന്റെശ്രദ്ധനേടാനുംശ്രീക്കുട്ടന്സാധിച്ചു. അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെകൂടുതൽവളർച്ചയ്ക്കായിഞങ്ങൾമികച്ചപരിശീലനംനൽകും. അതുവഴിവരുംസീസണുകളിൽഐ.എസ്.എല്ലിൽശ്രദ്ധിക്കപ്പെടുന്നഒരുകളിക്കാരനായിഅദ്ദേഹംമാറുമെന്ന്പ്രതീക്ഷിക്കുന്നു.”

Sreekuttan signs contract extension

The Blasters are delighted to announce that Sreekuttan M.S. has signed a new contract, which will keep him at the club until May 2027. The 21-year-old forward from Trivandrum has steadily progressed through the club’s developmental system and remains an exciting talent in the Blasters’ attacking lineup.

Sreekuttan joined Kerala Blasters FC reserves in 2022 and has since featured in various competitions, including the RF Development League, the Kalinga Super Cup, and the Durand Cup. He also netted a vital goal in the RF Development League, demonstrating both composure and an eye for goal in high-pressure moments.

After gaining valuable experience with the U21 and reserve teams, Sreekuttan made his senior team debut during the 2023-24 season and has continued to train regularly with the first team. A hardworking centre forward known for his physical presence and sharp instincts inside the box, he made an immediate impact in the Super Cup, scoring in just two appearances. His journey reflects the success of the club’s development pathway and its commitment to nurturing local talent.

Abhik Chatterjee, CEO of Kerala Blasters FC, expressed his delight at the extension:

“At Kerala Blasters FC, no matter the challenges of the current football landscape or the weight of expectations, we remain steadfast in our belief in promoting young talent, especially those who come from Kerala. Sreekuttan is a perfect example of a player who has risen through the ranks with hard work and perseverance. We are extremely proud of his progress and wish him and his family the very best as he continues his journey in yellow.”

Karolis Skinkis, Sporting Director of Kerala Blasters, shared his perspective:

Sreekuttan has been patient concerning his development and growth over the last few years within our reserve team ecosystem. He is a player with very good energy, a threat in transitions and has a natural goal-scoring ability.

Sreekuttan made a positive and lasting impression on David. He got the opportunity to express himself in the Kalinga Super Cup. We look forward to him developing his skill sets further and hope he will become a player to watch out for in the ISL in the upcoming seasons.

Reacting to his contract extension, Sreekuttan M.S. said:

“It means everything to me to continue with Kerala Blasters. This club has been my home and has helped me grow at every level. I’m truly grateful to the coaches and management for their trust, and I will keep pushing myself to give my best every single day.”

Kerala Blasters FC continues to uphold its philosophy of identifying promising young players and providing them with the platform to shine at the highest level of Indian football.

Blasters complete third summer signing

Kerala Blasters FC continues youth centric approach by signing India U19 International Sumit Sharma.

The Blasters are pleased to announce the signing of exciting young defender Brahmacharimayum Sumit Sharma. The 18-year-old joins the club on a three-year deal with an option to extend for a further two years.

A product of Classic Football Academy in Manipur, Sumit has steadily built a reputation as a composed and tactically intelligent centre-back. His performances at the youth level have earned him national recognition, including appearances for the India U-17, U-19, and U-20 teams.

He was part of the squad that lifted the SAFF U-17 Championship, even finding the back of the net during the tournament, a testament to his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch. Most recently, he was also a member of the India U-19 team that clinched the SAFF U-19 Championship title earlier this year, further cementing his place among the country’s top emerging talents.

Sumit has already represented India in key international friendlies, including a recent tour with the U20 side earlier this year, where he featured against strong opponents such as Jordan, Syria, and Indonesia. Despite his young age, his maturity, game awareness, and comfort on the ball have stood out consistently.

On the signing, Abhik Chatterjee, CEO of Kerala Blasters FC, said:

“At Kerala Blasters, our vision is to identify and nurture the next generation of Indian footballers. Sumit fits perfectly into this philosophy. He’s a technically gifted and mentally strong player who has already shown leadership qualities in youth internationals. We are confident that with the right guidance and environment, he will grow into a top defender for both club and country.”

Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director of Kerala Blasters FC, added:

Sumit is a young defender with good intelligence and high potential, but obviously a lot of work ahead of him. He already shows more maturity than his age would suggest. For us, this signing is important for planning things forward because he is one of the best players in his generation. We are happy to have him and will help him grow to his full potential.

Sharing his excitement, Sumit said:

“I feel very excited and proud to join a big club like Kerala Blasters FC. It is a great honour for me. I have so much to learn here, and I believe this is the right place for my growth. I want to thank the club management for giving me this opportunity.”

Sumit becomes the club’s third signing of the summer transfer window and further strengthens the defensive unit, reinforcing the club’s commitment to building a core of young, talented Indian players for the future.

Arsh signs for the Blasters

Kerala Blasters is pleased to confirm the signing of talented young goalkeeper Arsh Anwer Shaikh on a three-year deal, committing his future to the club until 2028.

Arsh is widely regarded as one of the most promising goalkeepers in the country. He joins the Blasters from Mohun Bagan Super Giant, where he developed into a dependable presence within the squad and gained valuable experience in prestigious domestic and continental competitions, including the Indian Super League, Durand Cup, Super Cup and AFC Cup.

Born in Chhattisgarh, Arsh has steadily progressed through Indian football’s competitive landscape with a calm and mature presence between the sticks. Known for his strong reflexes, composure under pressure and ability to organize his defence, he brings a confident and ambitious mindset to the Blasters setup.

On the signing, Abhik Chatterjee, CEO of Kerala Blasters FC, said:

“We are focused on assembling a team that understands our long-term vision as well as our competitive goals. Strengthening our goalkeeping department is a key part of that process, and bringing in a young, talented goalkeeper like Arsh is a step in that direction.

We see him as someone who can develop with us and be a part of the bigger project we are working on at this club. We believe in his potential. Our focus remains on investing in promising Indian players who can become the backbone of our future.”

Sharing his thoughts on Arsh’s arrival, Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director of Kerala Blasters FC, said:

“Arsh is a young goalkeeper with good natural talent. He has strong fundamentals, a good mentality, and stays calm under pressure. We believe his arrival will increase the competition in our goalkeeping group, which is important for pushing everyone to a higher level. He has a profile that we liked, and we are confident he can develop well with us and become an important part of the squad.”

Arsh said:

“I’m really happy to join Kerala Blasters FC. This club is from a place where football is loved deeply, and I have always seen how passionate the fans are. Also, I’m looking forward to this new chapter in my career. I believe this is the right environment for me to learn, gain more experience and grow as a player. I will work hard every day and give my best to help the team in any way I can.”

Arsh becomes our second signing of the summer transfer window, following the arrival of Amey Ranawade. He will add further strength to a goalkeeping unit that includes Sachin Suresh and Nora Fernandes, who joined the club last season.

Blasters announce Activbase as ‘Official Rehabilitation Partner’

Kerala Blasters is delighted to announce a strategic three-year partnership with Activbase, a pioneering organisation in sports and orthopaedic rehabilitation based in Kochi. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the club’s commitment to enhancing player care, injury management and overall physical wellness.

Through this partnership, Activbase will work hand-in-hand with the Kerala Blasters medical and performance departments, supporting them with state-of-the-art equipment, advanced practices and modern methodologies in sports injury rehabilitation, orthopaedic recovery and athletic conditioning.

The goal is to strengthen further the club’s already capable medical setup, ensuring world-class support for players both on and off the pitch.

Activbase, with its deep-rooted vision of transforming rehabilitation and fitness landscapes in India, brings a holistic approach to wellness. The organisation specialises in providing integrated healthcare and fitness solutions, combining the science of movement with modern therapeutic methods to serve not just athletes, but individuals from all walks of life.

Speaking on the collaboration, CEO of Kerala Blasters FC, Abhik Chatterjee said:

“As the Indian football calendar continues to grow and the demands on players increase, it’s essential that we stay ahead by constantly upgrading our systems. We are committed to creating a high-performance environment where our players receive the best possible care.

Our partnership with Activbase is a major step in that direction, it reflects our intent to strengthen the club’s medical and rehabilitation setup in a way that supports long-term player health and peak performance. This collaboration is not just about addressing today’s needs, but about building a future-ready club that can compete at the highest level, season after season.

It is heartening to see the vision for such facilities gradually coming to the fore in Kochi, which bodes well for the general sports ecosystem within the state.”

Speaking on the collaboration, Managing Partner of Activbase, Dr. Anas Kollancheri, MPT 

“Activbase is proud to announce our official partnership with Kerala Blasters FC as their Official Rehabilitation Partner. We are thrilled to associate with one of India’s premier football clubs and support their journey with our expertise in orthopaedic rehabilitation, sports injury management, and athlete recovery.

Activbase is India’s most advanced centre specialising in Musculoskeletal injuries and pain management, post-surgery rehabilitation – featuring a Pain lab, High performance lab, aquatic therapy, with protocols unique for each individual – athletes, non-athletes, elders, etc. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to elevate sports recovery standards and empower athletes to perform at their peak.”

This partnership reflects Kerala Blasters FC’s broader commitment to professionalism, player welfare and long-term sustainability. As the club continues to grow on and off the field, initiatives like this underline the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports not just performance, but the overall wellbeing of its athletes.