Exclusive: Mohun Bagan's Kibu Vicuna set to sign for Kerala Blasters

The Spaniard recently guided the I-League outfit to the title in the ongoing campaign.

Kibu Vicuna who recently guided Mohun Bagan to the I-League title this season is in advanced talks with Indian Super League outfit Kerala Blasters, Khel Now understands.

A source close to the developments stated, "The Blasters see the Spaniard as the perfect fit for the re-build of the project. They have very impressed with his coaching credentials, past experience and work with the Mariners this season. Talks are progressing well and both parties are closing to sealing an agreement."

Kerala Blasters had high hopes when they appointed Dutch tactician Eelco Schattorie after his stellar stint with NorthEast United. However, incessant injury troubles and a lack of cutting edge resulted in another disappointing season for the Blaster as they finished in the seventh position.

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Khel Now can reveal that the Dutchman, who had only signed a year-long deal with the club is set to leave with no new terms on the table. Interestingly, it is understood that if the tactician had been able to guide the Blasters to a top-five finish in the previous campaign, he would have secured an automatic extension.

Therefore the management has already started planning for the next season and has already roped in Lithuanian sporting director Karolis Skinkys. They are also looking for an alternative for Eelco Schattorie and Mohun Bagan head coach Kibu Vicuna is their prime target for next season.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqB1HzaqTXs

Vicuna came to India with ample experience, as he has worked with Polish tactician Jan Urban as his assistant. The Spaniard has had stints at clubs like Legis Warszawa, Zaglebie Lubin, CA Osasuna and Lech Poznan. He has worked rigorously in youth development and has coached eminent players like Raul Garcia, Nacho Monreal, Cesar Azpilicueta and so on.

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He has won the I-League with the Mariners in his first year in India which proves his understanding of the game and his gameplay this season has been lauded by Indian football fraternity.

Kerala Blasters have shown promise in glimpses, but if they get hold of someone like Kibu Vicuna they can finally break the hoodoo and become a formidable force which they once were. If the deal goes through it will be interesting to see how Vicuna works with someone like Karolis Skinkys, as the duo will look to guide the club to greater heights.

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