One of the most followed ISL (Indian Super League) teams, Kerala Blasters change coaches like how the weather changes frequently. They have had a tumultuous journey since their inception in 2014. From reaching the final in their debut season to facing constant coaching changes, the Blasters have experienced a rollercoaster of shifts in the team. Now, on Monday, the club has sacked head coach Mikael Stahre due to a string of unsatisfactory results in the current ISL season. This decision marks yet another important moment in the club. Let’s have a look at the timeline of coaches the Kerala Blasters have changed over the years.
Debut season with David James
In their maiden season in 2014, the Blasters were led by player-coach David James, who was coach along with the marquee player with the team. Under him reached the final of the ISL. Despite a stunning 3-0 win in the first leg, they suffered a dramatic collapse in the second leg, eventually losing the title. After this, the Kerala Blasters announced in the next season that he would not be a part of the team.
Series of coaches over the years
The Blasters have struggled to find stability in the dugout, with a series of coaches coming and going. Peter Taylor, Terry Phelan, Steve Coppell, René Meulensteen, David James, Nelo Vingada, and Eelco Schattorie have all taken the helm, each leaving their own mark on the team.
Breakthrough under Vukomanovic
The turning point for the Blasters came in the 2021-22 season when they appointed Ivan Vukomanovic as their head coach. Under his guidance, the team embarked on an impressive unbeaten run, securing their first-ever playoff berth in six years. The following season saw the Blasters continue their upward trajectory, setting new club records and reaching the final, ultimately falling short in a penalty shootout.
Controversy and setbacks
The 2023-24 season was a rollercoaster for the Blasters. Vukomanović’s suspension following a walkout incident led to further upheaval, with the team’s performances fluctuating throughout the campaign. Despite qualifying for the playoffs for the third consecutive year, they were eliminated in the knockout stage.
A brief timeline of Kerala Blasters coaches
2014
- Inception and Initial Success
- David James appointed as player-coach.
- Finished 4th in the league and reached the finals after defeating Chennaiyin FC in a thriller.
- Finished runners-up after losing to Atlético de Kolkata in the final.
2015
- Coaching Changes
- Peter Taylor appointed as head coach.
- Despite a promising start, the team struggled, leading to Taylor’s dismissal midway.
- Terry Phelan took over as head coach but the team finished last.
2016
- Return to Finals
- Steve Coppell appointed as head coach.
- Strong defensive play led the team to another final where they lost to Atlético de Kolkata in a penalty shootout.
2017-18
- Instability and Management Shift
- René Meulensteen appointed but resigned mid-season.
- David James returned as coach; team finished 6th and missed playoffs.
2018-19
- Coaching Challenges
- Nelo Vingada took over mid-season after David James was sacked.
- Finished 9th with only 2 wins, failing to qualify for playoffs.
2019-20
- Continued Struggles
- Eelco Schattorie appointed as head coach.
- Finished 7th with inconsistency and injuries plaguing the season.
2020-21
- Further Setbacks
- Kibu Vicuña took over as head coach.
- Team finished 10th after poor performances, leading to Vicuña’s exit.
2021-22
- Resurgence Under Ivan Vukomanovic
- Ivan Vukomanović appointed; guided team to playoffs for the first time since 2016.
- Set multiple club records despite losing to Hyderabad FC in the ISL final in penalties.
2022-23
- Record Performance and Controversy
- Achieved longest unbeaten streak and most wins in a season.
- Ended 5th, reaching playoffs but an on-field controversy led to disqualification against Bengaluru FC.
2023-24
- End of an Era
- Vukomanović’s successful tenure ended; team finished 5th and reached playoffs again.
- Parted ways with Vukomanović; he left as the most successful manager in the club’s history.
Recent Development
- 2024-25 Season
- Mikael Stahre was sacked after a poor run.
- Current position: 10th in the league, sparking a search for a new head coach.
The future ahead for Kerala Blasters
As the Blasters bid farewell to Vukomanović, the club faces the challenge of finding a new leader to continue their upward trajectory. With a dedicated fan base and a thirst for success, the Kerala Blasters will be looking to write a new chapter in their history.
