Who is Kerala Blasters FC's new signing Dusan Lagator?

Kerala Blasters have completed the signing of the towering Montenegrin for Rs. 80 lakh transfer fee.
Indian Super League (ISL) club Kerala Blasters FC have fortified their defensive unit with the recruitment of Montenegro centre-back Dusan Lagator. The former Debrecen VSC defender is touted by many experts as the heir apparent to defender Alexandre Coeff. The 32-year-old Frenchman is expected to depart at the end of the current campaign.
Lagator comes with a wealth of experience in Europe and also possesses the versatility to play in a defensive midfield role. The Blasters have recruited the Montenegrin while viewing him taking up the right side of the two-man pivot in the heart of their midfield.
Kerala Blasters FC will give a new lease of life to Lagator
The 30-year-old Montenegrin will be joining the Tuskers from the Hungarian first-division club Debrecen VSC, who currently sit 11th in the league standings. The switch will allow Lagator to start fresh following a challenging season with Debrecen in 2024-2025.
Having made 16 appearances this season, he has been a mainstay for the Hungarian club in their midfield. In his last appearance for Debrecen VSC, the defensive midfielder was sent off in the 79th minute against Zalaegerszegi. A switch to the ISL could be the perfect move for Montenegrin International, which will be gunning for a resurgence this season.
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The Tuskers are adding experience in the midfield department
With the signing of Lagator, the Blasters are adding a player who has the ability to dictate the pace of the game and neutralize opposition threats. The 30-year-old could be a huge mentor for young promising midfielders like Vibin Mohanan, Freddy Lallawmawma and Mohammed Azhar.
Lagator’s presence could also complement and relieve pressure on star Adrian Luna and allow him to fully express himself offensively. With the Montenegrin covering Luna by sitting just behind him, the Blasters will be hoping the new signing delivers an instant impact.
Dusan Lagator has plenty of European football experience
As the game in the ISL continues to evolve and the standard of play rises, the signing of Lagator by the Tuskers will elevate their tactical knowledge. The former Debrecen VSC defensive midfielder has played in UEFA Europa League qualifying rounds in the past and has also taken part in the UEFA Conference League during the 2023-2024 season.
Apart from his club performances, he has also played for his national team, Montenegro, nine times over the years. A player with a wealth of experience playing at the highest levels of club and international football will be a welcome addition for the Blasters at a pivotal point of their ISL campaign.
Kerala Blasters FC are closing in on the top-six playoff spot
The Tuskers currently sit in the ninth spot in the ISL league standings. With four points separating them from the coveted top-six spots, the Blasters recruitment has been immense. With games against NorthEast United FC, East Bengal FC and Chennaiyin FC coming up, the interim head coach TG Purushothaman has a crucial run of games on his hands.
Wins against these teams will boost the confidence of a Kerala Blasters side, who are on a two-game winning streak. With the business end of the ISL playoffs fast approaching, the Tuskers will be keen to book their berth sooner rather than later.
With Lagator joining the ranks, the Blasters will be presenting the Manjappada another name they can chant for all the right reasons this season.
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