Kerala Blasters Sack Head Coach Mikael Stahre After Disappointing ISL Run

Kerala Blasters FC announced on Monday that it has parted ways with head coach Mikael Stahre following a string of poor performances in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season. The decision comes as the club struggles at 10th place in the table, with only 11 points from 12 matches.

The club also confirmed the departures of assistant coaches Björn Wesström and Frederico Pereira Morais, stating that the exits are effective immediately. 

“The club sincerely thanks Mikael, Björn, and Frederico for their contributions throughout their time with Kerala Blasters FC. We wish them nothing but success in their future endeavours,” read an official statement from Kerala Blasters.

Stahre, who replaced Ivan Vukomanovic ahead of the current season, has faced mounting pressure due to the team’s inconsistent form. Despite a promising 3-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC on November 24, the Blasters have since endured a three-match losing streak, including defeats against FC Goa (1-0), Bengaluru FC (4-2), and defending shield winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant (3-2).

The team’s struggles this season have left fans and management frustrated, as they have managed to secure just three wins out of 12 matches played. The club’s disappointing results and lack of cohesion on the field have been key factors behind the managerial shake-up.

While Kerala Blasters searches for a new head coach, the club announced that Tomasz Tchórz, the current reserve team head coach and head of youth development, will take temporary charge of the first team alongside assistant coach TG Purushothaman. The club assured supporters that the new head coach will be revealed “in due course.”

The decision marks a critical moment for Kerala Blasters, which has struggled to regain form in recent seasons. The coaching change reflects an urgency to turn around their fortunes as the league progresses.

Stahre’s exit comes as the ISL continues to deliver intense competition, with Kerala Blasters unable to keep up with the league’s top teams. With their hopes of making the playoffs hanging by a thread, the management will be under pressure to appoint a coach capable of steering the team back to winning ways.

Meanwhile, fans remain hopeful for a turnaround under interim leadership as the Blasters prepare for their upcoming fixtures.