Kerala Blasters Sign Aibanbha Dohling Ahead of 2024 Season

A New Chapter Unveiled for Aibanbha Dohling

Kerala Blasters, the vibrant football franchise from the South, has made waves in the football transfer market. They’ve secured the services of Aibanbha Dohling, a promising defender, by shelling out a whopping transfer fee of approximately Rs 1.45 crore. This significant move has set the stage for a new era in Kerala Blasters’ defensive lineup.

Also Read: Kerala Blasters transfer news 2023: Prabir Das signs; Pritam Kotal to follow

A Dream Contract: Three Plus One Years

Aibanbha Dohling, hailing from the picturesque state of Meghalaya, has inked a lucrative three-plus-one-year contract with Kerala Blasters. This move marks the culmination of Kerala Blasters’ relentless pursuit of an experienced left-back throughout the transfer window.

A Three-Way Tug of War: Aibanbha Emerges Victorious

The left-back position was a hotly contested spot in Kerala Blasters’ lineup. The club had their eyes on three potential candidates: Aibanbha Dohling, Akash Sangwan of Chennaiyin FC, and Subhashish Bose from Mohun Bagan Super Giant. All three players were under contract with their respective clubs, adding complexity to the negotiations. However, Kerala Blasters’ determination and an irresistible offer ultimately persuaded FC Goa to part ways with Aibanbha.

The Art of Persuasion: Kerala’s Offer Evolution

The journey to secure Aibanbha’s transfer wasn’t a straightforward one. Kerala initially tabled an offer of Rs 1 crore early in the transfer window, only to be rebuffed by FC Goa. After a period of negotiation silence, Kerala Blasters returned with an improved bid of approximately Rs 1.45 crore, a sum that FC Goa found too tempting to decline.

A Win-Win-Win Situation

In the world of football transfers, it’s rare to find a deal that satisfies all parties involved. However, Aibanbha Dohling’s move from FC Goa to Kerala Blasters appears to be just that. A source close to the player highlighted the advantages for each party: Kerala gets the quality left-back they desperately needed, Goa receives a substantial transfer fee, and Aibanbha secures a new contract and a guaranteed starting spot at his new club.

Goa’s Left-Back Options

With Aibanbha’s departure, FC Goa will now rely on Saviour Gama and Sanson Pereira as their remaining left-back options. It’s a testament to Aibanbha’s abilities that Goa needed multiple players to fill his shoes.

Farewell and Thanks from FC Goa

FC Goa bid a fond farewell to Aibanbha Dohling in a statement: “FC Goa have reached an agreement with Kerala Blasters for the transfer of full-back Aibanbha Dohling on an undisclosed transfer fee. The club would like to thank Aiban on a successful four-year stint with us, during which he won the Hero ISL Shield and the Durand Cup.”

Kerala Blasters Confirm the Deal

Kerala Blasters also made an official announcement, stating, “the club has reached an agreement with FC Goa for the transfer of full-back, Aibanbha Dohling, for an undisclosed transfer fee.” The completion of the transfer is contingent on successful medical examinations.

A Versatile Defender: Aibanbha’s Journey

Aibanbha Dohling, originally a central defender, showcased his adaptability and skills while playing as a left-back during his tenure with FC Goa. The emergence of new signing Jay Gupta, who has already impressed in the Durand Cup with two appearances, will provide essential backup in the defensive lineup.

A Sigh of Relief for Kerala Blasters

Aibanbha Dohling’s signing couldn’t have come at a better time for Kerala Blasters. The club’s recent friendlies and competitive games in the Durand Cup revealed a pressing need for reinforcements on the left side of their defense. With experienced defenders like Pritam Kotal and Prabir Das among the new signings, Kerala Blasters are poised for an exciting and competitive season ahead.

Kerala Blasters’ acquisition of Aibanbha Dohling represents a strategic move that has the potential to strengthen their defense and elevate their performance in the upcoming football season. This transfer saga is a testament to the club’s determination and persistence in securing the right talent for their squad.