Indian Super League (ISL) club Kerala Blasters FC announced the signing of Spanish forward Jesus Jimenez Nunez, on a two-year deal, until 2026. He joins the Blasters after spending the 2023 season with OFI Crete, in the Greek Super League (Greece).

Jimenez, 30, began his career in the youth system of Club Deportivo Leganés (CD Leganés), where he spent two seasons with the reserves team. Jimenez also spent time with Agrupación Deportiva Unión Adarve (2013/2014), Alcorcón B (2014/2015), Atlético Pinto (2015) and Club Deportivo Illescas (2015/2016).

The 30-year-old striker’s first breakthrough season came at FC Talavera, in the Spanish Third Division. In the 2016/17 season, he scored 26 league goals in 33 matches, helping the club win promotion to Segunda B. During his two seasons with Talavera, Jiménez scored 36 goals in a combined 68 appearances across all competitions.

The 6-foot, 176-pound striker then joined Polish first-division side Górnik Zabrze. In his four seasons with Gornik, he made 134 appearances, scored 43 goals and recorded 26 assists across all competitions (Ekstraklasa, Polish Cup and Europa League).

Prior to his stint in Greece, Jimenez played for FC Dallas and Toronto FC in the MLS (USA). He recording nine goals and 6 assists during this time.

Sporting Director Karolis Skynkis expressed his enthusiasm for the signing: “Jesus (Jimenez) is a fantastic addition to our squad. His experience in various leagues, combined with his goal-scoring prowess, will significantly strengthen our attacking options. We are confident that Jesús will play a crucial role in our campaign and help us achieve success this season.”

Jesus Jimenez also shared his excitement: “I am thrilled to start this new chapter with Kerala Blasters FC. The passion of the fans and the club’s vision align perfectly with my ambitions. I look forward to contributing to the team’s success and creating lasting memories both on and off the pitch.”

Samir Murmu joins Jamshedpur FC

ISL side Jamshedpur FC have acquired the services of young and talented local striker Samir Murmu on a two-year deal.

The 22-year-old sensation from Bhagabandh village near Ghatsila has already made a name for himself in the football circuit, impressing with his goal-scoring prowess. His stellar performance in the 2023-24 Santosh Trophy saw him net 10 goals in just 13 appearances, earning him the coveted Player of the Tournament award and his first call-up for the India U-23 squad.

Born to Karthik and Joba Murmu, Murmu’s love for football was ignited by his elder brother Prakash Murmu, who inspired him to take up the sport. Murmu began his football journey at the Football Feeder Center, supported by the Tata Steel Foundation, where he honed his skills under the guidance of coach Kanu Murmu. His talent and dedication quickly earned him a spot at the Army Boys Hostel, Danapur Bihar Regiment, where he represented both Bihar and the Army in numerous tournaments.

Being the first player from the Kolhan region outside of Jamshedpur, Samir Murmu expressed his delight in joining Jamshedpur FC. He said, "I'm immensely proud to represent my hometown and the Kolhan region in the ISL. This is the biggest opportunity of my life, and I'm determined to give it my all to secure my place in the team. I'm committed to working tirelessly in training to prove myself to the coach and the people of Jamshedpur. I'd also like to request the entire Jamshedpur FC fan base to continue supporting us - we're eager to make you proud!"

Murmu’s impressive performances led to his selection for the Bihar U19 team that won the Junior National BC Roy Trophy in 2016. He also finished as a runner-up in the U17 Subroto Cup 2017, representing Army Boys. Following a year of training with the Indian Army, where he attained the rank of Sepoy, Murmu went on to play for Army Red and participated in the prestigious Durand Cup from 2022 to 2024.

Head Coach Khalid Jamil shared his enthusiasm about signing the local lad. He said, "Samir (Murmu) is an exciting young talent from our local community, bringing a unique combination of speed and versatility to the pitch. As a local player, he embodies our vision to nurture and showcase homegrown talent. With his ability to play across multiple positions - winger, attacking midfield, and striker – Samir (Murmu) offers flexibility and depth to our squad. His strong work ethic and dedication make him an excellent addition to our team."

 

Related tags:

Kerala Blasters FCJamshedpur FC2024-2025