We are determined to reach new heights: Kerala Blasters FC's Ivan Vukomanovic
The Blasters are eager to maintain their position at the top as they face FC Goa away from home.

Kerala Blasters FC head coach Ivan Vukomanovic is determined to uphold the team's momentum as they gear up to face FC Goa at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa this Sunday.
Kerala Blasters FC currently leads the table with 17 points from eight matches, securing five wins, two draws, and experiencing only one loss in the ongoing season.
Vukomanovic perceives his team's current standing as part of a long-term process to build a squad that consistently contends for the title.
"I always approach these situations with a long-term perspective. We view these achievements as part of an ongoing process and strive to continue our efforts, especially from the beginning of the competition,” Vukomanovic stated in the pre-match press conference.
"Our focus is on the long term, building a team that consistently competes at the top of the table,” he added.
"This year, we're also determined to reach new heights, staying competitive and fulfilling our role as a team. As a coach, I'm convinced that the entire unit can meet the demands and stay at our current position,” Vukomanovic further continued.
FC Goa currently occupies the second position on the table with 16 points from their initial six games, boasting a record of five victories, one draw, and zero losses in the ongoing season.
Hustling away ahead of #FCGKBFC 👊#KBFC #KeralaBlasters pic.twitter.com/n4Eaig0ct8
— Kerala Blasters FC (@KeralaBlasters) December 2, 2023
Vukomanovic acknowledges the positive influence Manolo Marquez has had on the FC Goa team this season. He expresses anticipation and excitement to face the Spanish coach again, expecting an intriguing and competitive battle.
“As we navigate through this season, FC Goa is gradually shaping up under the guidance of a remarkable coach. The significant move made by the (FC Goa) management, particularly in securing the coach's signature, have already proven to be impactful,” Vukomanovic stated.
“Expectations for our upcoming match remain high, anticipating a clash between two competitive teams with quality, especially in the offensive department. It's a pleasure to face him again. He is not just a great coach but also a great human being,” the Serbian added.
Playing alongside Luna and Dimitrios is truly special for me: Kwame Peprah

Forward Kwame Peprah accompanied head coach Ivan Vukomanovic at the pre-match press conference. After a long goal drought, the Ghanaian finally opened his goal tally in the ISL during the thrilling 3-3 draw against Chennaiyin FC in the last match.
Peprah feels that Vukomanovic provides his players with the necessary confidence required to perform at their highest level.
"I really enjoy working with my coach because he encourages players and gives us the confidence to do our best,” Peprah said.
“It makes the job easier on the field when you know someone has your back, and even if you make mistakes, he's always there to help you improve,” he added.
His attacking combinations with teammates Adrian Luna and Dimitrios Diamantakos have yielded positive results for the team. Luna has scored three goals and provided four assists in the current ISL season while Diamantakos has scored four goals and assisted once this season.
Peprah revealed that playing with both of them has had a very positive impact on his gameplay.
"Playing alongside Adrian Luna, Dimitrios is something truly special for me,” Peprah said.
“Their knowledge becomes evident on the field, and I learn a lot from them. Their experience is a tremendous help for my growth on the field,” he added.