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Kerala Blasters FC extends its contract with Goalkeeper Sachin Suresh Until 2026

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The Club is thrilled to announce that goalkeeper Sachin Suresh has signed a three-year contract with Kerala Blasters FC until 2026.

The 22-year-old goalkeeper, who marked his first team debut earlier this year in the Hero Super Cup 2023, came through the youth system of the Club. Having represented the Reserves, on several instances even as captain, in the Reliance Foundation Development League, the NextGen Cup in UK, and the Kerala Premier League over the last few years, Sachin has impressed with his consistency, hunger, attitude, and ability.

Sachin, who has already represented India at the U-17 and U-20 levels, was already training with the senior team for the last few years in a developmental role. Sachin’s impressive performances in the Hero Super Cup 2023 is a great indication of his growth with the Club over the last few years and a testament to his commitment in showing the right attitude & patience.

Commenting on the extension, Karolis Skinkys, Kerala Blasters Sporting Director, said:

“Sachin has been with us for some time now and this extension is a reflection of his hard work, attitude, skill & temperament. I believe Sachin has the mentality it takes to perform & succeed at the most competitive levels, and one day captain this great Club. We see him as a very bright prospect and hence, the decision to back him with a long-term contract was clear. Now, he needs to keep his head down, stay humble, and keep working.”

As the Club looks ahead to an exciting future, the contract extension of Sachin Suresh serves as a promising sign of the club’s commitment to developing local talent and building a formidable team. The organization remains dedicated to providing an environment that nurtures growth, while also aiming to provide an exceptional sporting experience for all stakeholders across the country.

KERALA BLASTERS COMPLETE SIGNING OF DEFENDER PRITAM KOTAL.

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The Club can confirm that it has reached an agreement with Mohun Bagan Super Giant for the transfer of Pritam Kotal. The deal will see Sahal Abdul Samad go the other way, bringing an end to his 6 year journey with the Club. The Club will also receive an undisclosed transfer fee.

The former title-winning MBSG captain joins the Blasters having put pen to paper on a three-year contract until 2026.

Kotal’s football journey began with the youth team of Chirag United, where an impressive stint opened doors to the India U-19 side. In 2011, Pritam joined the All India Football Federation’s developmental I-League side, Indian Arrows. He made 26 appearances for Arrows before earning a move to Mohun Bagan, in 2013, where he quickly established himself as a first-team regular.

Pritam marked his ISL debut in 2014 with FC Pune City, from Mohun Bagan. He would spend two years there. In a standout 2015, he won the I-League title with Mohun Bagan and also won the I-League’s Best Defender for the year 2015. The trophy collection continued as he picked his maiden ISL trophy with ATK in 2016.

The defender made a permanent switch to ATK in 2018, kickstarting a journey that saw him transform as a player and leader for both Club and Country. Since 2018, Pritam made over 125 appearances for the Club, becoming a vital cog in the team’s defense. Under his leadership and captaincy, the team would go on to lift two more Hero ISL trophies in 2020 and 2023.

Pritam has been just as consistent with Indian National Football Team. Since his debut in 2015, he has been a mainstay in defense and has featured regularly for the Blue Tigers. been a vital cog in the team’s plans. He has made over 50 appearances for the Blue Tigers and has lifted numerous trophies like the SAFF Championship, Intercontinental Cup, and Tri Nations Cup with the national team.

Equally apt playing at center back or right back, Kotal is known as a hard-as-nails defender. His strong tackling capabilities combined with an unwavering level of commitment and steel in his approach toward football have made him a true stalwart of Indian Football. An inspiring figure both on and off the pitch, Pritam has led by example for both Club and Country over the years.

Commenting on the successful signing of Pritam Kotal and Karolis Skinkys, Kerala Blasters Sporting Director, said:

“Pritam is a player with a tremendous work ethic and winning mentality. It is very rare to see players like Pritam who, despite having enjoyed the kind of success that he has enjoyed over the years, still want to reinvent themselves, get better, and maintain their standard of play. He brings a wealth of experience and leadership to our squad. There is no doubt that he is one of the finest players in Indian football. I am elated to have Pritam in our squad and expect nothing but great things from him this upcoming season.”

An elated Pritam Kotal said,

“I am delighted to join Kerala Blasters and embark on this new chapter of my career. The club’s rich history and passionate fanbase make it an exciting opportunity for me. I am eager to contribute my skills and leadership to the team and work towards achieving our collective goals. I am grateful for the trust placed in me by Kerala Blasters, and I promise to give my absolute best on the field. Together with my new teammates, I am confident that we will create memorable moments and bring success to the club. I am eagerly looking forward to wearing the Kerala Blasters jersey and making our fans proud. Let’s go, Blasters!”

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Pritam Kotal as he embraces this new journey with Kerala Blasters. Pritam becomes the fourth signing by the Club this summer, following the arrivals of Jaushua Sotirio, Prabir Das, & Naocha Singh. He is expected to link up with the squad in Kochi where preseason preparations have already begun.

KERALA BLASTERS FC COMPLETE SIGNING OF INDIAN FULL-BACK HUIDROM NAOCHA SINGH

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The Club is pleased to announce that versatile Indian full-back Huidrom Naocha Singh has completed his move to Kerala Blasters for the upcoming season, on loan from Mumbai City FC.

Huidrom Naocha Singh, who hails from Manipur, started his career with the NEROCA FC youth set-up. He made his senior debut with TRAU FC before returning back to NEROCA in 2018. Following impressive seasons in title-winning I-League and Durand Cup campaigns between 2019 and 2020, the 23-year-old defender joined Mumbai City FC ahead of the Hero ISL 2021-2022 season.

The Manipuri defender then spent half of the 2021-2022 season on loan with SC East Bengal. Prior to joining the Blasters, Naocha went on loan to Roundglass Punjab. He played all 15 games without missing a minute en route to another title-winning campaign and displayed impressive performances on both sides of the defense.

Comfortable on both feet, Naocha is capable of playing anywhere across the defense. He is known for his pace, strength, & tackling ability, qualities that make him a formidable option as a lung-bustling fullback.

Commenting on the signing of Huidrom Naocha Singh, Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, Kerala Blasters, said:
“Naocha is someone who we see adding a different set of qualities to our defense. Still only 23, he comes with title-winning experience. We believe he is yet to reach his limits and the coaching staff is excited to work closely with Naocha to unlock his full potential. I expect him to gel very well into our plans for this season and wish him all the best for the same.”

Huidrom Naocha Singh said:
“I am so happy to join Kerala Blasters. They have always backed young players and with Coach Ivan, I hope to find new levels of performance that can contribute to the success of the team. The style of play at Kerala Blasters is something that appeals to me, and I hope to fit into that style and contribute my all to the success of the club. I cannot wait to start the upcoming season.”

Naocha becomes the second full-back signing of the summer following the arrival of Prabir Das, who was announced earlier this window. The Club wishes Naocha the very best for his future with Kerala Blasters. He will link up with the squad in Kochi where preseason preparations have already begun.

Player Arrival for pre-season camp 2023–24 begins.

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Excitement and anticipation are prevalent throughout the Kerala Blasters FC camp as the player arrivals for the pre-season camp of 2023–24 have officially begun in Kochi as of July 10, 2023.

The first batch of players and team staff that arrived late Monday evening were elated to see each other after a long gap. Some of the other players and coaching staff who are yet to arrive are expected to join the camp in the coming days.

Once the pre-season camp kicks off, the squad will start practising and preparing themselves for the challenges of the upcoming season, with the Durand Cup immediately on the team’s radar.

Watch this space for more in-depth details and news related to the Club

Kerala Blasters FC Announces T.G. Purushothaman as New Assistant Coach for First Team

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The Club is pleased to announce the appointment of T.G. Purushothaman as the new Assistant Coach for the first team on a 3-year contract, until 2026. Purushothaman, who has been promoted from our youth system, will bring his invaluable experience and dedication to further enhance the team’s coaching staff.

As Assistant Coach, Purushothaman will work closely with the head coach and players of the first team, providing vital support and guidance to ensure the team’s continued growth and success. Additionally, he will maintain his existing responsibilities within the youth system, serving as a bridge between the reserve team and the first team.

Purushothaman’s appointment reflects Kerala Blasters’ ongoing commitment to nurturing talent from within and building a strong foundation for long-term success. Having previously played a crucial role in the development of numerous young talents within our youth system, Purushottaman’s promotion to the first team coaching staff is a testament to his exceptional skills and expertise.

With a deep understanding of our club’s philosophy and the unique challenges faced by young players transitioning to the first team, Purushottaman will play a pivotal role in ensuring a seamless integration of talent.

Commenting on the appointment of T.G. Purushothaman, Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, Kerala Blasters, said:

“We are delighted to welcome T.G. Purushottaman to the first team coaching staff. He is a coach who took important part in many of our current first team player development. As a club, we are proud to have people in our system who can take such a big responsibility. I believe coach will be providing our players with the best possible support to achieve their goals.”

Purushottaman himself expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, saying:
“I am honored and excited to join the first team coaching staff at KBFC. Having worked closely with the young players in our youth system, I am well aware of the immense potential within the club. I am eager to contribute to their development and help create a seamless transition from the reserve team to the first team. I also look forward to working closely with Coach Ivan and the rest of the coaching staff and hope we can make a great season!”

The Club looks forward to the positive impact T.G. Purushottaman will have on the team and is confident that his appointment will further strengthen the coaching setup, fostering a culture of excellence and success both on and off the field.

Vibin Mohanan To Travel To Greece For OFI Crete Training Stint

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In a landmark move, Kerala Blasters FC can confirm that young midfielder Vibin Mohanan has travelled to Greece for a one-month training stint with Greek First Division Club, OFI Crete.

OFI Crete, one of the most respected clubs in Greek football, recognizes the potential and talent Vibin possesses. They have extended an invitation for him to join their pre-season, providing a remarkable opportunity to train and compete at the highest level. Kerala Blasters FC wholeheartedly supports Vibin’s decision and believes that this experience will be invaluable in shaping his professional career.

The 20-year-old will train with the Greek side for one-month during which, he will be able to gain important footballing experience with the help of the coaches and staff at OFI Crete in an immersive training environment.

The youngster is expected to take full part in the pre-season preparations, including travelling with the side to Netherlands for 2 weeks where they play at least 3 matches against Dutch First Division teams.
Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, Kerala Blasters Football Club said:
“This move is an indication of our belief in Vibin and an indication that talent at Kerala Blasters will be encouraged and nurtured. Vibin had an encouraging first season and we want to do the best to deliver on promises we make to young players like Vibin that choose to trust us with their future. Our endeavor is to have more moves like this, which can potentially open doors for others to gain a similar experience too. It brings me great pleasure to be able to see Vibin in a European context and hopefully set a benchmark for many more young Indian players to follow. I want to thank our colleagues at OFI Crete facilitating this training stint and we wish Vibin the very best for his time in Europe.”

Vibin’s training stint is the second such initiative by the Club to facilitate international exposure trips for its players. Last season, Kerala Blasters academy graduates Aimen & Azhar joined Polish club Rakow Czestochowa for a similar training stint.

Kerala Blasters FC remains dedicated to its youth development program and will continue to nurture and promote young talents within the club. We look forward to witnessing Vibin’s continued growth and success.

KERALA BLASTERS AGREE DEAL TO SIGN SAGOLEM BIKASH SINGH

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Kerala Blasters Football can confirm they have reached an agreement for the signing of winger Sagolem Bikash Singh. The 22-year-old joins KBFC on a two year deal until 2025, with an option to extend.

The Club can also confirm that Bikash will spend the next season on loan at Mohammedan Sporting Club in a move that is expected to help accelerate Bikash’s growth as a player.

Commenting on the contract signing of Sagolem Bikash Singh, Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, Kerala Blasters, said:

“Bikash is a very exciting prospect who needs regular playing time. At this point we want to give him the time and backdrop that help him develop further as a player. We wish his stint at Mohammedan Sporting Club would help him further his progress and be an option for Kerala Blasters in near future”

Sagolem Bikash Singh said:
“Being on the radar of a Club like Kerala Blasters is very heartening for me. While I am delighted to sign with this great Club, currently, my focus is on the tenure at Mohammedan Sporting Club. I hope to learn as much as possible during my time there and comeback with that experience under my belt. I want to thank the Club for trusting me and ensuring that my progress continues in the best way possible”

The talented winger from Manipur, who spent the last season with TRAU FC in the Hero I-league, recorded 3 goals in 22 appearances. Offering tremendous flair, versatility, and the ability to fit anywhere across the attack, the addition of Sagolsem Bikash Singh will further boost an already growing core of young players at the Club.

Bikash will gain further experience in the Hero I-League continuing his progress in a new environment, while being closely monitored and supported by Blasters staff.

Everybody at the Club would like to wish Bikash the best of luck this term as we follow his progress with Mohemaddan SC.

Kerala Blasters FC most followed Indian Football Club on social media!

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In the latest CIES Football Observatory Weekly Post, the top 100 clubs in the world with the most followers on social networks have been highlighted, with Kerala Blasters FC ranked 70th in the list, being the only football club from India to feature.

With 6.7 million followers across Twitter (2 million), Instagram (3.4 million), and Facebook (1.3 million), Kerala Blasters leads the football vertical on social media in India, with a virtual footprint which rivals that of some of the leading and most famous football clubs around the world.

This strong and unrivalled social media presence epitomises a strong bond between the club and its fanbase. It also is a reflection of the club’s commitment to produce engaging and creatively-driven content that bridges the gap between the fans and the Club.

“It is indeed a great achievement for our Club. It is a reflection of the club’s constant efforts to innovate digitally and find meaningful ways to connect and engage with our wonderful fanbase. There are ongoing efforts to further grow the Club’s brand and fan base beyond India. In the coming years, with pre-season tours and exposure matches being planned in the Middle East and South East Asia and exciting partnerships with global brands. we are well placed to tap into the Top 50 very soon.”
The Club’s director, Mr.Nikhil Bhardwaj had this to say about KBFC’s rise in the digital world.

It is an honor to represent India amongst all the international clubs on the list. The Club realizes the responsibility it bears to maintain these standards and remains committed to exploring and growing further through uncharted territories in the ever-important world of social media.

Karanjit Stays!

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Kerala Blasters FC would like to announce that we have extended the contract of veteran goalkeeper Karanjit Singh for a period of one year, extending his stay at the club till 2024. This extension will see Karanjit Singh continue in his role as a part of the Kerala Blasters’ goalkeeping unit.

Commenting on the contract extension of Karanjit Singh, Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, Kerala Blasters, said:
“Karanjit has a wealth of experience that holds our entire goalkeeping squad in good stead. His work ethic and bonding with the coaches and the rest of the squad make him a team player to the core. I hope he has a good upcoming season with us.”

Karanjit Singh said:
“This will be my third season at Kerala Blasters, and the experience that I have had and the friends that I have made at the club are truly close to my heart. I hope to contribute in every way possible to the success of the team in the next season.”

The club would like to congratulate Karanjit and wish him the best for his upcoming tenure.

Club statement

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It is with a heavy heart that we must announce the temporary pause of our Women’s Team. This decision has been necessitated by the recent financial sanctions imposed on our club by the football federation. While we respect the authority and decisions of the federation, we cannot deny our disappointment at the impact it is likely to have across various functions of our Club.

After a very encouraging first season that saw our women’s team achieve tremendous results, this year the Club had plans for increased investments for our women’s team. These investments included a first-of-a-kind foreign pre-season tour accompanying our Men’s Team, player exchanges, exposure tours, and so much more. However, the financial sanctions have presented us with an unfortunate challenge. As a Club, we must prioritize the more immediate objectives and long-term financial stability.

We deeply regret that we cannot continue our women’s team activities until such time that there is complete clarity on the matter. The decision to pause their activities was made after careful consideration and evaluation of the current circumstances. Not to mention, the Club is still awaiting further sanctions from the league body as well that are only likely to augment the financial impact on the Club.

It is important to highlight that this pause is temporary. We will reinstate our Women’s Team upon closure of this matter in its entirety.

To our incredible women’s team members, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the dedication, resilience, and talent you have displayed throughout your time with us. You have been an inspiration to us all, and we are committed to supporting you individually in any way we can during this pause.

To our loyal supporters, we understand your disappointment, and we share your frustration. Your unwavering support for our women’s team has been phenomenal, and we assure you that we will be back.

We firmly believe that the future holds brighter prospects for our women’s team. The pause we are currently facing is just a temporary setback, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering equality, inclusivity, and opportunities for all athletes.

Thank you for your understanding, and we appreciate your continued support during these challenging times.