After a stellar Indian Super League season where they reached their third finals, Kerala Blasters have announced the extension of their head coach Ivan Vukomanovic’s contract for three more years. The new contract will keep him at the club till the end of 2025.
Vukomanovic since joining the club has developed an identity in their playing style, something that is not easy to do in only one season. He also became a true fan favourite and guided his team to the ISL final where they lost on penalties against Hyderabad FC.
Kerala Blasters under his tutelage had a remarkable 10 game unbeaten run which saw them reach the top of the table for the first time in their club’s history. It was a sensational season for the Blasters as they achieved several club records. The club recorded its highest goals scored, highest points obtained, the highest number of wins and least number of losses, under Ivan. The Serbian also paid close attention to developing young talents and showed great trust in them. Overall everyone at the club starting from the management to the fans were very happy with the Serbian manager and hence he gets a longer run.
“I’m happy that we agreed on a three-year deal with Ivan. He adapted seamlessly and is an integral part of the Blasters family. I think it is an important move for our club, and we now have a strong base to continue our work with consistency and achieve more goals. I would like to congratulate all Kerala Blasters fans with this extension!” said Blasters’ Sporting Director, Karolis Skinkys.
Vukomanovic was ecstatic about signing the contract extension as he added, “Since we started our cooperation last year, I felt the right energy and emotion around this beautiful club. I was immediately attracted by people leading this project, by fans, and Kerala.
“Today, we have a great opportunity to continue in the same direction with more commitment and dedication. I am very pleased and happy with this contract extension. Hope that we all will have even more motivation to be better in the next seasons.”
Ivan Vukomanovic’s main aim now will be to help Kerala Blasters win trophies in the next Indian Super League season. The Yellow Army were very close to both the League winner’s Shield and also the ISL trophy. So they will look at the mistakes that they made and will be keen on improving them next season.