ISL 2024-25: Kerala Blasters FC rope in Alexandre Coeff, NorthEast United sign Ankith Padmanabhan

Kerala Blasters FC has signed the services of French defender Alexandre Coeff. The defender has signed a one-year contract with the Yellow Tuskers. Coeff made 56 appearances for RC Lens in Ligue 1 and has all the experience under his belt.

The 32-year-old has played for top-division teams like RCD Mallorca (Spain), Mouscron (Belgium), Ajaccio (France), and Stade Brestois (France) on loan. Subsequently, from 2018 to 2023, Coeff played for Ajaccio, Auxerre (both in France), and Brescia (Italy).

Karolis Skinkys, Sporting Director, said: “Alexandre (Coeff) will bring us much-needed experience and quality, and he will reinforce different positions in our team. Additionally, we expect leadership qualities from him.”

On signing with the Blasters, Alexandre Coeff said: “Hello to the entire Yellow Army. Thank you for this warm welcome. I have rarely experienced this in my career. I can’t wait to vibrate with you on the ground. See you soon.”

On the other hand, NorthEast United FC has signed youngster Ankith Padmanabhan. The 22-year-old forward joins on a one-year deal with an option to extend for two more years.

The youngster rose through the ranks while playing for Karnataka in the Santosh Trophy campaign in 2022–23 and played a key role in his team’s successful run.

On joining the Highlanders, Padmanabhan stated: “This is the right club for me to develop as a player. I’m confident I can contribute to the club’s success. The fans here are incredible, so I cannot wait to see them in the stadium.”

NorthEast United FC head coach Juan Pedro Benali expressed enthusiasm about the signing: “Ankith (Padmanabhan) is a young, ambitious player with a lot of potential. He’s fast, technically sound, and offers a lot going forward.”

CEO Mandar Tamhane added, “At NorthEast United FC, he has the right environment to learn from experienced players and coaches and become a top professional.”