Indian Super League (ISL) side Kerala Blasters FC on Friday evening announced that the side has decided to part ways with its Serbian manager Ivan Vukomanovic.
According to an official club statement, the search for a new head coach will begin immediately.
Vukomanovic, fondly called "Ashaan" (master in Malayalam) by the fans of the Kochi-based ISL side joined the team in 2021 and led KBFC to three consecutive play-offs. In his maiden season with the club, Vukomanovic managed to lead KBFC to the summit clash. Blasters were beaten in a penalty shootout by Hyderabad FC but Ivan managed to win the "Manjappada" fanbase's hearts with the effort.
Under his watch, Kerala Blasters also recorded its highest points total, apart from scoring the most goals in a single season in 2022.
“Coach Ivan Vukomanovic’s influence on the team development over the past three years has been truly invaluable. Working alongside him has been both a privilege and a pleasure. I'm immensely grateful for his contributions to Kerala Blasters FC, and I wish him all the best in all his future pursuits,” Sporting Director Karolis Skinkys was quoted as saying by the club release.
According to Club Director Nikhil B Nimmagadda, “This has been a difficult decision for us. While the change is difficult, we feel it is the right time to make the next step. I am very grateful to Ivan for what he has done for KBFC... I wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”