KOCHI: Hero Indian Super League franchise Kerala Blasters FC have parted ways with their ninth head coach towards the end of what has been a dismal ISL campaign.
Kibu Vicuna, who joined the Yellow Army from Mohun Bagan after its merger with ATK and entry into the ISL, was appointed head coach on 22 April 2020.
Out of the race for the top four, the club announced that assistant coach Ishfaq Ahmed will be taking charge as the head coach on an interim basis until a permanent replacement is found.
Speaking on the decision, Vicuna said: “Unfortunately, the season has been unusual and unexpected. My parents taught me to be responsible of what I am doing so I always give all my heart to it, but also give no excuses. I want to thank all the management, players, coaching staff, and members of the club for their professionalism, kindness, and closeness. Specially, I want to express my gratitude to all the Kerala Blasters fans for their support since the first till the last day, which makes you exceptional and amazing. I wish all of you and the club all the best in the future. You deserve it.”
“I would like to thank Kibu for his honesty and responsibility in this decision. We had a clear objective to make improvements this season. Unfortunately, the results were not what we expected. We are grateful for his commitment and professionalism towards the club and wish him well for the future.” said Karolis Skinkys, Sporting director, Kerala Blasters FC.
While the official release of Vicuna’s exit stayed off any controversy, Goal points out that the Spaniard concluded his last interaction with the media by criticising the club’s transfer policy. “Our scouting of the players was bad, the plans and expectations for the season were higher than the reality,” was his parting comment to the media.
