ISL: Ashique Kuruniyan set to return to Bengaluru FC ahead of 2025-26 season

Ashique Kuruniyan joins the Blues as a free agent.

India forward Ashique Kuruniyan is all set to rejoin Bengaluru FC as a free agent ahead of the 2025–26 Indian Super League (ISL) campaign. After spending three seasons with Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the 27-year-old winger is set for a homecoming to the club he previously represented between 2019 and 2022.

Both the player and Bengaluru FC have agreed on terms, with official paperwork also being completed.

As per sources, Ashique Kuruniyan had initially signed a 3+2-year deal with Mohun Bagan in 2022. While the three-year base contract has now run its course, the extension clause wasn’t triggered by the club, leaving the 27-year-old winger available as a free agent.

Bengaluru FC, who are in need of some reinforcements in the attack, moved quickly to seize the opportunity.

A homecoming with renewed hopes for Ashique Kuruniyan

For Ashique Kuruniyan, this marks a return to familiar territory. He previously played for Bengaluru FC from 2019 to 2022, making 39 appearances and scoring twice. His professional career began with FC Pune City in 2017, where he registered three goals in 26 outings. A brief loan stint at Villarreal C during the 2016–17 season provided him with vital exposure to European football, even though he didn’t get any game time.

In 2022, he made a high-profile move to Mohun Bagan Super Giant and featured in 36 matches over three seasons. Despite his pace and determination, the 2024–25 campaign proved to be underwhelming for Ashique in terms of output.

Ashique Kuruniyan struggled with injuries early in the season and failed to register a single goal contribution in 18 ISL appearances. However, flashes of his potential were on display, especially in the 2–0 win over NorthEast United and his energetic cameo in the ISL Final against Bengaluru.

Known for his versatility, Ashique Kuruniyan is capable of playing as a winger or wing-back. While he lacks the sharpness he once possessed, he remains one of the most athletic Indian players in the league. A change of environment could help him rediscover his attacking edge and improve his end product—something that has been lacking in recent seasons.

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