The previous Indian Super League season was an emotional roller-coaster for Kerala Blasters FC, who flashed confidence at different points during the league but ultimately finished mid-table. Inconsistency plagued the team, as they alternated between stunning victories and disappointing defeats. A combination of injury problems, lack of depth, and uneven performances made it difficult for the Blasters to challenge for a top spot.
This time, however, preparations for the upcoming season are progressing at a brisk pace. While fans are still adjusting to some of the bold decisions made by management, the Blasters have undergone significant changes, starting with the appointment of new head coach Mikael Stahre. Stahre brings fresh ideas, and the club has made some notable additions in the transfer window, aiming to improve on last season’s shortcomings.
Summer Transfer Window
Kerala Blasters had a busy summer, securing key foreign signings to address some glaring gaps. Despite missing out on high-profile Indian signings, the club managed to bring in experienced international talent, which could help stabilize the team.
Alexandre Coeff (32, French CB from SM Caen) is a critical signing to replace former defensive stalwart Marko Leskovic. Coeff brings leadership and experience to the backline.
Jesus Jimenez (30, Spanish striker) was a late acquisition but an important one, filling the void left by last season’s Golden Boot winner, Dimitrios Diamantakos. Though Jimenez missed most of last season due to injury, his experience, vision, and agility could give the Blasters the firepower they need.
Noah Sadaoui (30, Moroccan forward) adds more attacking depth. He comes with proven ISL experience, having scored 35 goals and provided 18 assists in his brief stint in the league.
In addition to these names, younger talents like R.Lalthanmawia (forward, 22), Nora Fernandes (goalkeeper, 26), and Som Kumar (goalkeeper, 19) have joined the squad, giving the Blasters a mix of youth and experience.
The departure of several key players, however, has left some fans anxious. The most notable exit was Dimitrios Diamantakos, who joined East Bengal FC after leading the Blasters in goals last season. Other major departures include Daisuke Sakai, Fedor Cernych, Marko Leskovic, and Jeakson Singh, all of whom played pivotal roles in recent years.
Key Transfers In
- Jesus Jimenez (Joined from OFI Crete)
- Alexandre Coeff (Joined from SM Caen)
- Noah Sadaoui (Joined from FC Goa)
- Nora Fernandes (Joined from Aizawl FC)
- R. Lalthanmawia (Joined from Aizawl FC)
- Likmabam Rakesh (Joined from Neroca FC)
- Naocha Singh (Joined from Mumbai City FC)
- Som Kumar (Joined from NK Olimpija Ljubljana)
Key Transfers Out
- Aritra Das (Joined Inter Kashi FC)
- Jeakson Singh (Joined East Bengal FC)
- Nishu Kumar (Joined East Bengal FC)
- Dimitrios Diamantakos (Joined East Bengal FC)
- Karanjit Singh (End of Contract)
- Lara Sharma (Joined FC Goa)
- Daisuke Sakai (End of Contract)
- Marko Leskovic (End of Contract)
- Fedor Cerynch (End of Contract)
Kerala Blasters FC Strengths: Attacking Threat and Promising Youngsters
Strong Foreign Signings: With the arrivals of Alexandre Coeff, Jesus Jimenez, and Noah Sadaoui, Kerala Blasters have added valuable experience and depth to key areas.
Attacking Threat: The team’s forward line, with players like Jimenez and Sadaoui, offers versatility and proven goal-scoring ability, which could pose a challenge for any defense in the league.
Promising Youngsters: Talented local players like Muhammed Saheef and Vibin Mohanan have shown great potential, giving the squad a strong core of youth.
Kerala Blasters FC Weaknesses
Defensive Fragility: Despite the addition of Coeff, the defense struggled last season, and it remains to be seen if they can tighten up at the back.
Dependence on Foreign Players: Kerala’s fortunes heavily rely on the form of their foreign signings, especially with the departures of key Indian players like Jeakson Singh.
Injury Concerns: Jimenez, their marquee signing, has struggled with injuries in the past, which could be a risk if he fails to stay fit throughout the season.
Key Players to Watch
Muhammed Saheef
The Kerala-born 21-year-old left-back has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects for the Blasters. Known for his attacking contributions from defense, Saheef has been in stellar form throughout the pre-season and the Durand Cup. His ability to impact both ends of the pitch makes him a player to watch this season.
Rahul KP
The 24-year-old winger, a fan favorite, has much to prove in the upcoming season. Once a standout performer, Rahul’s form has dipped in recent times.
However, he is determined to recapture his best and deliver for his hometown club. His pace and ability to score crucial goals could be key if he finds consistency.
Jesús Jiménez
The 30-year-old Spanish striker, recruited to replace last season’s Golden Boot winner Dimitrios Diamantakos, brings experience and sharp attacking prowess.
Although he missed much of last season due to injury, Jimenez is expected to deliver with his quick feet, intelligent positioning, and ability to link up play in the final third.
Noah Sadaoui
The 30-year-old Moroccan forward with ISL experience, Noah Sadaoui has been a consistent performer since his arrival in India. Last season, he scored 35 goals and provided 18 assists for FC Goa, making him one of the most dynamic attacking players in the league.
His versatility allows him to operate as a winger or forward, and his pace, dribbling skills, and ability to shoot from distance make him a constant threat. Noah is the type of player who can turn the tide of a game in Kerala Blasters’ favor with a moment of individual brilliance.
Kerala Blasters FC Full Squad for ISL 2024-25
Goalkeepers:
- Nora Fernandes
- Sachin Ammanath Suresh
- Som Kumar
Defenders:
- Aibanbha Kupar Dohling
- Alexandre Serge Coeff
- Hormipam Ruivah
- Miloš Drinčić
- Naocha Singh Huidrom
- Prabir Das
- Pritam Kotal
- Sandeep Singh Soraisham
Midfielders:
- Adrián Nicolás Luna Retamar (Captain)
- Bryce Brian Miranda
- Danish Farooq Bhat
- Freddy Lallawmawma
- Mohammed Aimen
- Mohammed Azhar
- Renthlei Lalthanmawia
- Saurav Mandal
- Sukham Yoihenba Meitei
- Vibin Mohanan
Forwards:
- Ishan Pandita
- Kwame Peprah
- Noah Wail Jacob Sadaoui
- Rahul Kannoly Praveen
- Sreekuttan MS
- Jesus Jimenez Núñez
Predicted Best XI
Formation: 4-3-3
- Goalkeeper: Sachin Suresh
- Defenders: Prabir Das, Alexandre Coeff, Pritam Kotal, Aibhanbha Dohling
- Midfielders: Vibin Mohanan, Danish Farooq, Adrian Luna (C)
- Wingers: Noah Sadaoui, Rahul KP
- Striker: Jesus Jimenez
Final Thoughts and Predictions
The 2024–2025 Indian Super League (ISL) season of Kerala Blasters FC is scheduled to begin on September 15, 2024, at 7:30 PM at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, where they will face Punjab FC. Kerala Blasters will look to make a strong start under the guidance of their new head coach, Mikael Stahre, and build momentum early in the season.
Kerala Blasters have strengthened key areas, but ongoing defensive issues and the need for Jimenez to stay fit are potential stumbling blocks. If everything clicks, they could challenge for a top-four spot. However, if their defensive woes continue or injuries pile up, a mid-table finish seems likely.
When is Kerala Blasters FC’s first match of the ISL 2024-25 season?
The 2024–2025 Indian Super League (ISL) season of Kerala Blasters FC is scheduled to begin on September 15, 2024, at 7:30 PM at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, where they will face Punjab FC.
