Kerala Blasters part ways with head coach Kibu Vicuna

Published at :February 17, 2021 at 6:55 PM

Modified at :December 13, 2023 at 1:01 PM

(Courtesy : ISL Media)

The decision was taken following the Yellow Army's hapless 4-0 defeat against Hyderabad FC on Tuesday.

Indian Super League (ISL) outfit Kerala Blasters and head coach Kibu Vicuna have parted ways by mutual consent, the club announced on Wednesday. Assistant coach Ishfaq Ahmed will take charge of the club as their interim head coach.

"The club can confirm that we have parted ways with head coach Kibu Vicuna by mutual consent. We would like to thank him for his contributions during the season and wish him all the very best in his future endeavours. Assistant Coach Ishfaq Ahmed will be taking charge on an interim basis till a permanent replacement is announced," Kerala Blasters' statement read.

Speaking on the decision, Kibu Vicuna said, "unfortunately, the season has been unusual and unexpected. My parents taught me to be responsible for 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 from 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," he added further.

The club's Sporting Director, Karolis Skinkys also commented on the decision. "I would like to thank Kibu for his honesty and responsibility with regards to 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," he said.

The team from Kochi are currently at the penultimate spot in the ISL standings, with 16 points from 18 matches (three wins, seven draws, eight losses). They are out of the playoffs race and have two more matches remaining in the league stage, against Chennaiyin FC and NorthEast United.