Category: Club News

The Club can confirm that midfielder Freddy Lallawmawma has signed a contract extension until 2027, with a further option to extend.

Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, said:

“I’m very pleased to have Freddy extend his commitment with us until 2027. He is a brave and commited player – that’s what we need here at Kerala Blasters. I hope Freddy keeps improving and gives us more and more every season.”

Since joining the Club last summer, Freddy has made 14 appearances for the Club. An injury kept him out of action temporarily midway through the 23/24 season.

Freddy has featured regularly in preseason matches and Durand Cup this season, under new Head Coach Mikael Stahre, showing his adeptness at playing multiple positions in midfield.

Freddy Lallawmawma said:
“I’m honored and excited to extend my journey with Kerala Blasters until 2027. The support from the fans and the club has been incredible and I’m committed to giving my all on the pitch for the Club.”

A defensive midfielder by trade, Lallawmawma is a player full of industry, tenacity, and hardwork.

Everyone at Kerala Blasters would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Freddy on his new contract and wish him every success during his time here.

Kerala Blasters FC can confirm that the following players have been loaned for the upcoming season :

Likmabam Rakesh – Punjab FC
Bikash Singh – Mohammedan SC
Thomas Cherian – Churchill Brothers
Muhammad Ajsal – Gokulam Kerala FC
Mohammed Arbaz – Real Kashmir FC

The decision was made with a focus on providing ample game time and fostering the development of each individual involved. We wish them all the best for their respective loan stints!

Kochi – July 31, 2024 – As the rigorous and rewarding first leg of the preseason in Thailand comes to an end, Kerala Blasters FC is set to embark on the next exciting chapter of their journey by competing in the prestigious 133rd Durand Cup in Kolkata.
The Blasters, who are grouped alongside the CISF Protectors FT, Punjab FC & Mumbai City FC, will kick-off their Durand Cup campaign on August 1st against Mumbai City FC. This is followed by games on August 4th vs Punjab FC and on August 10th vs CISF Protectors FT.

Under new head coach Mikael Stahre, there has been a focused approach on building up the right mentality & intensity in training sessions and matches. Fans would have been happy to see forward Kwame Peprah back amongst the goals as he looks to make a strong comeback from his injury last season. With 8 goals scored in three matches, there were plenty of ‘firsts’ in goal contributions as Pandita, Amawia, Saheef, Yoheinba, all got on the scoresheet. In the three games played in Thailand, the team achieved the following results:

• KBFC vs. Pattaya United: 1 – 2
• KBFC vs. Samut Prakan City FC: 3 – 1
• KBFC vs. Ratchaburi FC: 4 – 1

Despite starting with a loss, there have been clear signs of improvement. With new coaching principles, technicalities and tactics being introduced to the squad, Coach Mikael will be happy to have concluded the first leg with a dominant win against Thai top-division side Ratchaburi FC. 

Meanwhile, Forward Jaushua Sotirio and midfielder Vibin Mohanan, both of whom suffered minor knocks in Thailand, are under rehabilitation with the team. Defender Prabir Das also returned home prematurely due to personal reasons. Goalkeeper Sachin Suresh, who has been undergoing individual rehabilitation in Kochi, has now rejoined the team in Kolkata. Newly signed defender Alexandre Coeff will join his new teammates next week in Kolkata

The Durand Cup squad is as follows:

Goalkeepers: Sachin Suresh, Nora Fernandes, Som Kumar, Mohammed Arbaz

Defenders: Milos Drincic,Sandeep Singh, Hormipam Ruivah, Pritam Kotal, Alexandre Coeff, Aiban Dohling, Muhammed Saheef, Naocha Singh

Midfielders: Mohammed Azhar, , Danish Farooq, Freddy Lallawmawma, Vibin Mohanan, Yoihenba Meitei, Sagolsem Bikash Singh, Saurav Mandal, Bryce Miranda, Adrian Luna, Rentlei Lalthanmawia

Forwards: Noah Sadaoui, Kwame Peprah, Rahul Kannoly Praveen, Ishan Pandita, , Sreekuttan MS, Muhammed Ajsal, Mohammed Aimen

With the Durand Cup on the horizon, there will be plenty of excitement to see the team back in competitive action. Forward Noah Sadaoui will look to carry forward his form from last season’s Durand Cup where he finished as joint-highest goalscorer with 6 goals. Head coach Stahre will also be hoping the players align with his philosophy and secure results in his first assignment with the team, aiming to challenge for the title.

In light of the recent natural calamity and tragic loss of life in Wayanad, Kerala Blasters players will wear black armbands during their opening group fixture of The Durand Cup 2024. This gesture is to express our deepest solidarity and condolences to those affected during this difficult time.

Kerala Blasters FC is pleased to announce the extension of right back Sandeep Singh, who puts pen-to-paper on a contract extension until 2027.

Since joining Kerala Blasters FC in 2020, the 29-year-old has been a versatile and reliable presence in the defensive lineup. In his 57 appearances for the club, Sandeep has demonstrated his consistency and adaptability across various positions in defence. For all his defensive contributions, fans will perhaps most fondly remember Sandeep’s memorable late winner against Odisha FC in the 2022-23 ISL Season.

On the contract extension Sporting Director Karolis Skinkys said :

“I am very pleased to extend Sandeep Singh’ stay with us. He has been a reliable player in the ISL, and a experienced member of the dressing room. We’re looking forward to seeing him contribute even more with his experience and continue to be an important part of our team in the coming seasons.”

Sandeep Singh said :

“I am excited to extend my journey with Kerala Blasters FC. I am grateful for the trust placed in me and remain fully committed to contributing to the team’ success in the coming seasons. Together, we will strive to achieve great things and continue building on the progress we’ve made.”

The extension of Sandeep’s contract underscores the club’s recognition of his value and the depth he adds to the squad. Over the past four years, Sandeep has been a crucial component of the team, and the Club is excited to continue building with him.

The Blasters are set to kick-off their Durand Cup campaign on August 1st vs Mumbai City FC, as new head coach Mikael Stahre and the team look to hit the ground running. The squad has already shifted base to Kolkata, after completing the first leg of preseason in Thailand.

Kerala Blasters FC is excited to announce the extension of Montenegrin center back Miloš Drinčić’s contract until 2026. This decision comes after a standout debut season that showcased Miloš’ vital role in the team’s future success.

Since joining Kerala Blasters FC in 2023, the 25-year-old has been a key figure in the defensive line. In his first season, Miloš made a significant impact across 22 games, contributing not only as a defensive leader but also with crucial goals, highlighting his versatility and importance to the squad. His gritty, physical style of play has garnered admiration from fans and teammates alike.

On the contract extension Sporting Director Karolis Skinkys said : “Miloš is a determined player with high motivation to perform and leadership qualities. I’m happy that he will continue with us and I’m looking forward for a good season ahead for him.”

Miloš Drinčić said : “Continuing my association with Kerala Blasters FC was a pretty easy decision for me. The fans’ passion and the club’s vision perfectly match my aspirations. I’m proud to represent Kerala Blasters FC and look forward to making ongoing contributions and lead the team towards mutiple title triumphs.”

With Miloš Drinčić’s extended commitment, Kerala Blasters FC is excited about the future and looks forward to many more impactful moments. The club anticipates that his presence, alongside recent signing Alexandre Coeff, will fortify the defense and contribute to the team’s prolonged success.

Kerala Blasters FC can confirm that Nihal Sudeesh will spend the 2024/25 season on loan at Punjab FC.

Nihal, who came up through the youth ranks of KBFC (barring a brief stint with the Indian Navy), made his senior team debut in the 2022/23 ISL season. The 23-year-old attacker, who has 19 appearances for the Blasters, will now join Punjab FC to further his experience.

This move was decided keeping in mind the need for necessary game-time and match experience at this stage of the talented youngster’s career. The Club will be tracking his progress closely.

Everybody at KBFC wishes Nihal all the best this season.

The Kerala Blasters FC squad has arrived in Thailand, as it kicks off preseason preparations for the 2024-25 season.

The first team have set up base in Chonburi, at the Pattana Sports Comlex, where newly appointed Head Coach Mikael Stahre and his coaching staff are expected to take charge their first training session today.

The first set of players arrived in Thailand early in the morning with more arrivals expected later in the week.

Fans will be happy to note that defender Aiban Dohling and forward Kwame Peprah will be training again with squad following the season-ending injuries they sustained last season.

Goalkeeping coach Slaven Progvecki will get a first look at newly signed goalkeepers Som Kumar and Nora Fernandes, both of whom joined in the summer. They are joined by Md. Arbaz, is now into his second pre-season with the first team. Meanwhile, Sachin Suresh is continuing his rehabilition in Kochi and is expected to join the squad later.

Other fresh faces include winger R. Lalthanmawia and star forward Noah Sadaoui, both of whom are all set to participate in their first full preseason with the Club since joining the Blasters in the summer.

Loan returnees Saheef, Ajsal and Bikash, all of whom gained valuable minutes and match experience last season, also joined the squad as they look to cement their place for the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, youngsters Sreekuttan and Korou Singh have received preseason call-ups, the latter of whom is expected to join the squad later due to U-20 National Team commitments.

The rest of the travelling squad includes plenty of familiar faces, as they look to kick-start preseason preparations on the front-foot.

The full travelling squad is as follows:

Goalkeepers

Mohammed Arbaz, Nora Fernandes, Som Kumar

Defenders

Miloš Drinčić, Sandeep Singh, Hormipam Ruivah, Pritam Kotal, Prabir Das, Aiban Dohling, Muhammed Saheef, Naocha Singh

Midfileders

Mohammed Azhar, Mohammed Aimen, Jeakson Singh, Danish Farooq, Freddy Lallawmawma, Vibin Mohanan, Yoihenba Meitei

Forwards

Adrian Luna, Noah Sadaoui, iJaushua Sotirio, Kwame Peprah, Rahul KP, Bryce Miranda, Ishan Pandita, R. Lalthanmawia, Sreekuttan MS, Muhammad Ajsal, Sagolsem Bikash Singh, Saurav

The Blasters will spend 3 weeks in Thailand before travelling back to India for the 133rd Durand Cup, which is set to commence on July 26.

FREEMANS Measuring Tools, Hand Tools and Power Tools is thrilled to announce a landmark 5-year sponsorship deal with Kerala Blasters. This multi-year agreement will see the FREEMANS logo prominently displayed on Kerala Blasters team kits, official merchandise and throughout their stadium facilities. Kerala has consistently been a key market for FREEMANS Tools since its inception in 1950.

“We are thrilled to announce a 5-year sponsorship deal with India’s premier football team, Kerala Blasters Football Club” , says Sahil Nayar, Executive Director at FMI Limited. “Kerala has been a key market for FREEMANS Measuring Tools, Hand Tools and Power Tools throughout our 75-year rich history. We believe there is no better way to further strengthen our bond with the state and all Keralites than by supporting the Kerala Blasters. Furthermore, the partnership between FREEMANS and KBFC marks a significant step in our endeavour to support and nurture sporting excellence in our country. With this association, FREEMANS brings 1,500+ excited employees to join the Yellow Army and we will all be supporting the Kerala Blasters with full gusto for the next 5-years and beyond. Go KBFC!”

The Kerala Blasters management said that they are delighted to welcome FREEMANS to the Blasters family. “It gives us immense pleasure to welcome FREEMANS into the Blasters family. This partnership is a testament to the shared values of excellence, dedication, and community support that both KBFC and FREEMANS embody. FREEMANS has been a trusted name in Kerala for decades, and now, as we join hands and embark on this exciting 5-year journey together, we are confident that this journey will elevate both our brands to new heights. We thank FREEMANS for the trust placed in us and look forward to a very meaningful partnership, creating impact on and off the field.”

FMI Limited is the pioneer and the largest manufacturer of Measuring Tools in the Indian subcontinent. The diverse product line includes an extensive selection of Hand Tools and Power Tools. Marketed under the FREEMANS brand since 1950, the products meet the highest international quality standards. They are well established in over 60 countries worldwide and are amongst the first non-European companies to obtain CE (MID) certification for our measuring tools.

As the preseason in Thailand approaches, two squad members, Jaushua Sotirio and Sachin Suresh, who faced setbacks due to injuries last season, have arrived early in Kochi for fitness camp and medical evaluations.

Sotirio, the Australian winger who joined Kerala Blasters FC from the A-League club Newcastle Jets, suffered a season-ending Achilles injury during preseason training last year. Since then, he has been diligently undergoing rehabilitation to regain full fitness. His early arrival in Kochi marks a crucial phase as he undergoes comprehensive fitness assessments to gauge his readiness for the upcoming season.

Similarly, goalkeeper Sachin Suresh, who made 21 appearances for Kerala Blasters FC last season, encountered his own setback when he dislocated his shoulder during an away ISL match against Chennaiyin FC. Despite this setback, Sachin has demonstrated resilience and commitment in his road to recovery through his rehab process.

The club’s medical staff will conduct a series of rigorous fitness checks and tailored assessments to address each player’s specific needs. These evaluations are not only aimed at monitoring their physical recovery but also at enhancing their strength, agility, and overall conditioning to withstand the rigours of the upcoming season.

Kerala Blasters Football Club is pleased to announce the signing of winger R. Lalthanmawia on a 3-year contract until 2027.

Lalthanmawia, an attacking winger, makes the move from I-League side Aizawl FC, where the 22-year-old made a name for himself through his ability to drive the game at pace, along with great skill on the ball and a consistent ability to build attacks.

Born in Mizoram, Lalthanmawia began his development as a professional footballer with Aizawl FC’s U-14 team. Progressing through the club’s developmental system, Lalthanmawia advanced through Aizawl’s youth teams, eventually breaking into Aizawl FC’s first team in the 2022/23 I-League season. He had an immediate impact, playing 20 I-League games and contributing with 3 goals and 5 assists.

Since then, he has gone on to represent Aizawl FC in competitions like the I-League and the Super Cup, becoming a vital member of the team. He added another 2 goals and 3 assists in the 2023/24 I-League season, taking his total tally for Aizawl FC 5 goals and 8 assists in 42 appearances.

Karolis Skinkys said:
“Lalthanmawia is a young player who brings with him a great deal of talent and opens up more attacking options for the squad. He still has a lot of areas to improve but we saw potential in him and believe that he can do it.”

R. Lalthanmawia said:

“I am very happy to be a part of a big club like Kerala Blasters FC. It is a massive opportunity for me, and I am grateful to the club’s management for showing faith in my ability. I will make sure to put in all my effort to contribute to the team’s success in every way possible over the upcoming season.”

Lalthanmawia becomes the club’s third domestic signing of the summer, after Som Kumar and Likmabam Rakesh. His addition will strengthen the first team’s attacking front, providing more options for the squad.

The Kerala Blasters FC family extends a warm welcome to R. Lalthanmawia and wishes him a successful season ahead. Lalthanmawia will join his first-team teammates in Thailand, where the Blasters squad is set to kick off preseason preparations for the upcoming season starting July 3rd.