Category: Player Announcements

Kerala Blasters FC is delighted to announce the signing of Spanish forward Jesús Jiménez Núñez, on a two-year deal, until 2026. He joins KBFC after spending the 2023 season with OFI Crete, in the Greek Super League (Greece).

Jiménez, 30, began his career in the youth system of Club Deportivo Leganés (CD Leganés), where he spent two seasons with the reserves team. Jiménez also spent time with Agrupación Deportiva Unión Adarve (2013/2014), Alcorcón B (2014/2015), Atlético Pinto (2015) and Club Deportivo Illescas (2015/2016).

The 30-year-old striker’s first break-through came at FC Talavera, in the Spanish Third Division. In the 2016/17 season, he scored 26 league goals in 33 matches, helping the Club win promotion to Segunda B. During his two seasons with Talavera, Jiménez scored 36 goals in a combined 68 appearances across all competitions.

The 6-foot, 176-pound striker then joined Polish first-division side Górnik Zabrze. In his four season with Gornik, he made 134 appearances, scored 43 goals and recorded 26 assists across all competitions (Ekstraklasa, Polish Cup and Europa League).

Prior to his stint in Greece, Jimenez played for FC Dallas and Toronto FC in the MLS (USA). He recording nine goals and 6 assists during this time.

Sporting Director Karolis Skynkis expressed his enthusiasm for the signing: “Jesús is a fantastic addition to our squad. His experience in various leagues, combined with his goal-scoring prowess, will significantly strengthen our attacking options. We are confident that Jesús will play a crucial role in our campaign and help us achieve success this season.”

Jesús Jiménez also shared his excitement: “I am thrilled to start this new chapter with Kerala Blasters FC. The passion of the fans and the club’s vision align perfectly with my ambitions. I look forward to contributing to the team’s success and creating lasting memories both on and off the pitch.”

The Club warmly welcomes Jesús to the Blasters family and eagerly anticipates his contributions in the upcoming season. The player was part of the full preseason training with OFI Crete and is expected to join ready with match fitness.

Kerala Blasters Football Club (KBFC) is pleased to announce the signing of Alexandre Coeff. The experienced and versatile French defender, who last played for SM Caen in the French Ligue 2, puts pen-to-paper on a one-year contract with the Blasters. Pre-dominantly a center-back, Coeff has demonstrated impressive versatility throughout his career, slotting in comfortably as a defensive midfielder and right back on numerous occasions.

Born in France, Coeff has had an impressive footballing journey, showcasing his talents across various leagues and continents. He spent his early days of football in the youth ranks of Plouzane Athletic, Stade Brestois 29, Guilers and Cavale Blanche Brest, before moving to the infamous RC Lens Academy in 2008. He received his first professional contract from RC Lens aged only 16, following impressive performances through the Club’s youth ranks. After a successful stint with RC Lens, having made 56 appearances for the Ligue 1 outfit, Coeff’s professional career took off with a series of significant moves, starting with Italian Serie A Club Udinese in 2013 who bought the player on a five-year deal.

Still very young, Coeff was immediately loaned to La Liga Club Granada FC in 2014, helping the team finish a Club high fifth position. The following years saw a series of loan moves to top division teams like RCD Mallorca (Spain), Mouscron (Belgium), Ajaccio (France), and Stade Brestois (France), before moving on a permanent transfer to AE Larisa (Greece) in 2018. Between 2018 and 2023, the 32-year-old had stints with Ajaccio, Auxerre (both in France) and Brescia (Italy).

Coeff’s experience is exemplified by his 320 career appearances across some of the biggest leagues, during which he also has a hand 25 goal contributions. He has also represented the France National Team at all age group levels.

Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, said:

“Alexandre will bring us much-needed experience and quality, and he will reinforce different positions in our team. Additionally, we expect leadership qualities from him.”

On signing with the Blasters, Alexandre Coeff said:

“Hello to the entire Yellow Army, thank you for this warm welcome, I have rarely experienced this in my career, I can’t wait to vibrate with you on the ground, see you soon.”

Alexandre Coeff becomes the club’s second foreign signing of the summer after Noah Saddaoui. He will link up with his new teammates soon, having requested some additional time due to personal reasons.

*Kerala Blasters FC Sign Star Forward Noah Sadaoui*

Kerala Blasters Football Club (KBFC) is delighted to announce the signing of forward Noah Sadaoui on a two-year contract, which will keep the dynamic forward at the Club until 2026. Sadaoui brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of goal-scoring prowess to the Blasters, significantly bolstering our attacking options for the upcoming seasons.
Born in Morocco, Noah has had an impressive footballing journey, showcasing his talents across various leagues and continents. His career began in the youth ranks of Wydad Casablanca, before moving to the United States to join the PDA Academy, the youth team of MLS side New York Red Bulls. After a successful stint in the US, contributing significantly to his college’s Championship runs and earning numerous All-MAAC First Team Honours, Noah’s professional career took off with a series of significant moves, starting with Israeli Premier League Club Maccabi Haifa in 2013. His first taste of silverware would come South-African side Ajax Cape Town (now Cape Town Spurs), as he scored three goals in three appearances to help them lift the 2015 MTN 8. Between 2015 and 2017, Noah had stints at Miami United, with whom he won the 2016 National Premier Soccer League, Real CD Espana (Honduras), and Al-Khaburah SC (Oman).

It wasn’t until the 2017-18 season that Noah had his break-through goalscoring season, having scored 16 goals in 20 appearances for Omani side Mirbat SC. Noah continued his form with Enppi SC (Egypt), making 6 goal contributions in 17 appearances, before returning to Morocco with MC Oujda. In his two seasons with Oujda, Sadaoui recorded 12 goals and 6 assists in 43 appearances.

He went on to feature for Raja Casablanca and AS FAR, two of Morocco’s most decorated and successful clubs, before making a move to the Indian Super League (ISL) with FC Goa in 2022.

The 30-year-old forward has 54 appearances in the ISL, with a mouth-watering tally of 29 goals and 16 assists to his name over the last two seasons. Having contributed to a goal in nearly every game he’s played, Noah has quickly risen to prominence as a star in the league and one of the most exciting players in the ISL.
Noah has 4 National Team appearances since his debut in 2021. Most notably, he started in the semi-finals and the finals of the 2021 African Nations Championship, helping Morocco to the title.

Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, said:

‘‘I’m very happy Noah joined us to help reach our targets. Obviously we expect him to be one of most important players in our team and one of best players in the league like he was during the last two ISL seasons. I really appreciate his desire to join Kerala Blasters and feel that this association can be very successful.’’

On signing with the Blasters, Noah Sadaoui said:

“I am really excited to join Kerala Blasters and be part of such a passionate club. The energy and support from the KBFC fans is simply incredible, and I cannot wait to play in front of them. I’m looking forward to contributing to the club’ success and being part of this exciting journey. Together, we can achieve great things and make our mark this season.”

The star forward becomes the club’s first foreign signing of the summer. He will link up with his new team in Thailand, where the team is scheduled to kick-off it’s preseason preparations

Kerala Blasters Football Club is thrilled to announce the signing of goalkeeper Nora Fernandes, who puts pen-to-paper on a 3-year-contract, until 2027.
Prior to joining the Blasters, Nora was with I-League side Aizawl FC. In what can be considered a breakthrough season, the 25-year-old goalkeeper made 17 appearances, impressing with his commanding presence in the penalty area, his strong reflexes, and his overall shot-stopping abilities.

Born in Goa, Nora started his youth and professional career at Salgaocar FC, having joined their U18 team. He represented them in the U18 I-League, and the Goa Professional League, before making the switch to Churchill Brothers in 2020. Between 2020 and 2023, the talented goalkeeper made 12 appearances. While the talent and raw ability was clear throughout, it was Aizawl that first spotted the potential, ultimately giving him a chance as first-choice goalkeeper in the 2023/24 I-League Season

Nora’s inclusion is based on his consistent performances, natural ability, and commanding physique in front of the goal. We had a task to reinforce goalkeeper position and we see potential in Nora to give us depth in this position

Karolis Skinkys – Sporting Director, Kerala Blasters FC

I’m proud and excited to join club like Kerala Blasters FC. I’m really looking forward to my first ISL season and I’m determined to give my best and perform to the highest of my abilities

Nora Fernandes – Goalkeeper, Kerala blasters fc

Nora Fernandes becomes the Club’s fourth domestic signing of the summer as well as the He also is the second goalkeeper signing in the summer, after Som Kumar. Nora’s addition will further strengthen and deepen the first-team goalkeeping unit, which also includes Sachin Suresh.
The entire Kerala Blasters FC community extends a warm welcome to Nora Fernandes and looks forward to a successful journey ahead. He will join the squad in Thailand, where the Blasters are set to kick-off preseason preparations for the upcoming season July 3rd onwards.

Kerala Blasters FC have completed the signing of Japanese forward, Daisuke Sakai, one a one-year contract.

Having played in various countries and leagues in Japan, Thailand, and Belgium, Sakai is a technical, skilled & versatile forward capable of operating in various positions across the front line.

Daisuke has made an impact everywhere he has played. He has 24 goals and 10 assists till date in nearly 150 appearances. Having spent his formative years in Japan, the 26-year-old forward comes with a good footballing background and has also represented Japan at the U17 and U20 Fifa World Cup.

Commenting on the signing, Karolis Skinkys, Kerala Blasters Sporting Director, said:
“It is great to see Daisuke Sakai join the Kerala Blasters squad. His profile gives the coach more options. He also has experience playing abroad in his career, which I am sure will help him adjust to India easily. I look forward to seeing Daisuke making his mark with Kerala Blasters in the ISL this season.”

Daisuke Sakai said :
“Going to India and playing in a different league will be a new experience for me, which I am very thankful for. I am very grateful that Kerala Blasters have given me this opportunity. By doing well and contributing to the club’s success, I hope to repay the confidence the club has shown in me.”

The Club extends a warm welcome to Daisuke into the Blasters Family. He is expected to link up with his new teammates in the coming week.

Kerala Blasters have reached an agreement with Punjab FC for the transfer of midfielder midfielder Freddy Lallawmawma, for an disclosed fee.

Freddy puts pen-to-paper on a three-year contract until 2026.

Over the past two seasons, the 21-year-old Mizoram native has been a commanding and combative presence in the Hero I-League with Punjab FC, winning the title with them last season.

A defensive midfielder by trade, Lallawmawma is adept at playing in multiple playing positions within the midfield and full of indistry- qualities that he has displayed extensively and consistently over his career thus far.

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

“Freddy is a very good addition to the squad. He is young and eager to learn with the mentality to impact and control the game in the midfield. I hope he can quickly settle into the squad and contribute to the team’s success.”

Freddy Lallawmawma said:

“I am extremely grateful for this exciting opportunity. Kerala Blasters is one of the biggest clubs in the country and I see this opportunity as the next big step in my growth as a player. I promise to do everything within my control to do whatever role the club requires me to fulfill.”

The Club extends its warmest welcome to Freddy. He is expected to link up with his new teammates in Kochi this week, where the team is preparing for the dubai leg of its preseason.

Kerala Blasters can confirm that it has reached an ageeement with FC Goa for the transfer of Aibanbha Dohling, for an undisclosed fee.

Aibanbha puts pen-to-paper on a three year deal that will see him at KBFC until 2026.

The transfer remains subject to completion of medicals.

Aiban, who started his career with the youth team of Shillong Lajong in 2010, would eventually return back to Lajong for his professional debut in 2016 in the Hero I-League.

Between 2010 and 2016, he represented the Tata FA Club in the youth I-League and represented Jharkhand in the Santhosh Trophy.

In 2019, the young defender made the switch to the ISL signing on with FC Goa. A versatile and aggressive defender, who has primarily plied his tried on the left side of defense, Aiban has been a core member of the FC Goa team since joining the team and won both the Hero ISL Shield and Durand Cup with them.

With over 80 games and experience in tournaments like Hero I-League, Hero ISL, Hero Super Cup, AFC Champions League and Durand Cup, Aibanbha Dohling comes into the Kerala Blasters squad with a wealth of experience and exposure and title-winning mentality.

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

“Aiban is a proven performer over the years in the Hero Indian Super League. His presence and experience in our squad will solidify our defense further. I expect him to continue delivering consistent performances in the upcoming season and gel well with rest of our defensive unit.”

Aibanbha Dohling said :
“It was a long window and I want to thank the Club for their persistence over the window and making this dream of mine happen. I am so happy and proud to join KBFC and I am ready for this new challenge. I look forward to giving it my all for the Club and bring cheers to the very passionate KBFC fanbase.”

The Club welcomes Aiban into the Blasters family and wishes him the very best on this next chapter.

Aibanbha will be joining up with the squad in Kochi soon as the Blasters get set to travel to Dubai for the last leg of preseason.

Kerala Blasters FC have completed the signing of Ghanaian striker, Kwame Peprah, who puts pen to paper on a two-year deal until 2025.*

Peprah, who hails from Kumasi, Ghana, has experience playing across the first divisions of Ghana, South Africa and Israel.

The 22-year-old striker first gained attention with his impressive performances for local club King Faisal FC in the Ghana Premier League. He scored 2 goals from 13 appearances in his debut season in 2019. Following this, in a breakthrough 2020/21 season, Peprah scored 12 goals, finishing as the top-scorer for his club and as the second-highest goal-scorer in the league.

Perpah then moved to Orlando Pirates in 2021, making an immediate impact. He was named the Pirates’ Player of the Season and also shortlisted for the DStv Premiership Young Player of the Season award following an impressive 7 goals in his debut season.

Prior to joining the Blasters, Peprah had loan spells with Maritzburg Utd. in the DStv Premiership and with Hapoel Hadera in the Ligat ha’Al.

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

“Kwame is an important addition to our squad. His physical attributes and footballing skills make him a big asset for our team. A young, versatile, & fast-footed striker, I believe Kwame will pose a constant threat to the Hero ISL defences and help our team fight for the highest targets.”

Kwame Peprah said :

“Many thanks to the Club for providing me with this opportunity. I am really happy to join this amazing Club and to have the opportunity to play in India. I look forward to joining my teammates very soon and to kick-start the next season!”

Subject to medicals, Kwame Prepah would be soon joining the rest of the squad. The Club would like to congratulate Kwame and wish him all the best for the upcoming season.

Kerala Blasters FC have signed 24-year-old Montenegro centre-back Miloš Drinčić on a one-year deal for the upcoming Hero ISL 2023/24 season.

Only 24, Drinčić has already amassed close to 230 appearances across the top tiers of Montenegro and Belarus. Drincic, who most recently turned out for Shakhter Soligorsk in Belarus, started his professional career in Montenegro with FK Iskra Danilovgrad in 2016. A string of consistent and dominant performances in the top division earned him a move to Sutjeska Niksic in 2021.

Milos experienced his first silverware that same year as he would go on to become a mainstay in the Sutjeska Niksic team that won the championship in 2022.

The young and towering Montenegrin, who has consistently competed in tournaments like UEFA Champions League & Europa Qualifiers, was part of Montenegro’s U17, U19, and U23 teams.

On the inclusion of Miloš Drinčić into the Blasters squad Karolis Skinkys, Kerala Blasters Sporting Director, said:

“Milos Drincic is exactly the profile we were looking for – fighter mentality, peak age, playing in top European league, and great ambition to represent Kerala Blasters. There were no doubts we wanted him. Though it took some time, I’m glad we have Milos with us. I wish him to become an important part of Kerala Blasters going forward.”

Miloš Drinčić said:

“I see this as a wonderful opportunity to explore a new challenge in a different league with a great Club. There was a good feeling from the first moment I started speaking with Karolis. I am really looking forward to this new chapter of my career, and I hope to make it a memorable one. I assure you I will be giving it my all both on and off the pitch.”

Miloš Drinčić, who is set don the number 15 jersey this season, is set to join the Blasters camp in Kolkata. The Club extends a warm welcome to Milos into the Blasters family and wish him the best for the upcoming season.

Kerala Blasters FC is delighted to confirm the signing of Ishan Pandita on a free transfer. The national team striker has put pen to paper on a 2-year deal, until 2025.

Pandita, who started his football career making waves in the BDCA Division A state league in Bengaluru, moved to Spain in 2014 at the age of 16. He joined the youth team of Alcobendas prior to representing youth teams Having represented the youth teams La Liga Clubs UD Almeria and CD Leganes.

Ishan returned to India in 2020 with FC Goa, scoring 4 goals in 11 ISL appearances – all of which came as crucial game-winning and game-tying goals. Prior to signing with the Blasters, the 25-year-old striker spent 2 years with Jamshedpur FC with whom he won the Hero ISL Shield in 2022. To date, Pandita has made over 50 appearances and scored 10 goals across various competitions like the Hero ISL, Hero Super Cup, and AFC Champions League.
His impressive performances earned him a maiden National Team call-up in 2021 and he has since featured regularly for the Blue Tigers.

On his addition to the KBFC squad, Karolis Skinkys, Kerala Blasters Sporting Director, said:

“Ishan is someone who we believe has the ability to impact the game with his presence and physicality and change the course of any contest. The timing now is correct as we aim to compete for titles and for this, we need players with mentality and hunger like Ishan’s. He has to continue working hard and success will follow. I wish him the best of luck on the signing.”

Ishan Pandita said:

“Delighted to become a part of one of the most passionate and beloved clubs in the whole of India. I am very pleased that the think tank at KBFC showed trust in my skill and ability as a player. It was a very long transfer window for me personally but I’m sure I made the right decision. I can’t wait to don the iconic yellow jersey and give it my all to the fans and the club.”

The club would like to congratulate Ishan Pandita on becoming the newest member of the Blasters family.
Ishan has already joined the rest of his teammates in Kolkata, where preparations for the Durand Cup are in full swing. The Blasters are set to kick off their Durand Cup campaign against Gokulam Kerala FC on Sunday, August 13.