Ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Super League (ISL 2023-24), Kerala Blasters FC confirmed the departure of captain Jessel Carneiro after his contract runs out on May 31. The left-back’s journey with the Blasters comes to an end after four incredible years.
Jessel, who joined the Club prior to the 2019-20 ISL season, made an instant impact for Kerala Blasters in his debut season. During his first season, he exhibited exceptional defensive skills, neutralizing opponent attacks while actively contributing to the team’s offensive plays.
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A string of consistent performances led to Jessel’s multi-year extension and promotion as vice-captain of the Club in the subsequent season. Jessel would then step up to fill in admirably as Club Captain for the remainder of the season after a mid-season injury to the then-captain, Sergio Cidoncha.
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In the ensuing 2021-22 season, Jessel was appointed as the Club’s permanent captain. His leadership and determination is exemplified by the fact that despite a mid-season shoulder injury that kept him on the sidelines, Jessel continued to lead the team with one of the youngest squads in the league at hand. With various players in only their debut season for the Club, under Jessel’s captaincy, the Club finished in the top four and as runners-up in the Championship final.
In his four seasons with the club, Jessel amassed over 65 appearances, providing 6 assists.
“Kerala Blasters FC will always be in my heart. The club that gave me an opportunity to become from nothing to something,” Carneiro said.
“It has been four years since I joined the club, and what a journey it has been, filled with both good and bad memories. But it was worth representing the club and fighting for the ultimate dream. A dream of mine and all the fans of Kerala Blasters FC,” he stated.
“I would specially thank you for all the love and support I received during my time at Kerala Blasters FC. Especially to the amazing fans in the world, Manjappada, the yellow sea. Thank you for backing me up when I was down and respecting me as a club captain in the last three years,” he said.
“In return, I can confidently say that I gave my all to make our dream fulfilled of becoming champions,” Carneiro added.
“As you know, life has its own destiny and secrets, and now it’s time for me to move on in life and say adieus to my club, Kerala Blasters FC,” said the defender.
“This journey with Kerala Blasters FC will always be special to me and my family. Coming as no one to earning a name for myself, becoming the club captain, and leading the yellow army has been an honour for me and my family,” he expressed.
As he signed off, Carneiro extended his best wishes to Kerala Blasters FC.
He said, “Thank you, Kerala Blasters FC, for making me who I am today. From the bottom of my heart, I sincerely wish the club the best of luck for the future.”
Jessel Carneiro Carrer
The Goa-born defender joined the Blasters in 2019 after an impressive tenure with Dempo SC. Despite the club’s average performance in the Indian Super League (ISL) that season, Carneiro emerged as a key figure for his team, providing five assists and making significant defensive contributions with 78 clearances, 28 tackles, 22 blocks, and 22 interceptions. Notably, he featured in every minute of the season for the team.
Following an impressive debut season, Carneiro was awarded a three-year contract extension in July 2020. He was also appointed as one of the vice-captains of the club for the upcoming season. In the absence of first-choice captain Sergio Cidoncha, who was sidelined due to an ankle injury, Carneiro led the team in the majority of matches. Prior to the 2021-22 season, he was officially designated as the club’s permanent captain.
The defender made 63 ISL appearances during his time with the Blasters.
