Kerala Blasters FC sign Ukrainian midfielder Ivan Kaliuzhnyi
By Bibhu Ray
(The Quiver):On Monday, Kerala Blaster FC announced its third foreign signing of the season by bringing in Ukrainian Midfielder Ivan Kaliuzhnyi on loan from FK Oleksandriya.
The 24-year old midfielder started his youth career with Ukrainian side Metalist Kharkiv. He then joined Ukrainian giants Dynamo Kyiv and represented them in the UEFA Youth League.
During the first season of his senior career, he played 27 times on loan with Metalist 1925 Kharkiv. He gained further experience the following year while on loan with the Ukrainian team Rukh Lviv, where he made 32 appearances and scored twice.
He was transferred to FK Oleksandriya in February 2021 after putting up regular performances as an all-around midfielder in Ukraine’s first league. In 23 appearances, he contributed 4 assists and 2 goals, continuing his strong play for the team.
“I would like to congratulate Ivan for joining our club and express my big happiness that we finally were able to bring him to Kerala. This quality player will be a good reinforcement for our team. I hope Ivan will adapt quickly and showcase all the qualities we know he possesses to excel here.” Sporting Director Karolis Skinkys said.
“I am excited to join the biggest club in India and very much looking forward to my new challenge. I am beyond excited to meet the famous yellow army and give my all for them and the club.” said Kaliuzhnyi.
Ivan Kaliuzhnyi becomes Kerala Blasters’s third foreign singing of the summer after striker Apostolos Giannou and defender Victor Mongli were announced in the last week.
