Kerala Blasters sign former Lyon defender Bakary Kone ahead of 2020-21 ISL season

Kerala Blasters have made ar defensive addition to ir foreign contingent having completed signing of former Lyon defender Bakary Kone.  32-year-old Burkina Faso international started his playing career at his hometown club Etoile Filante in 2004 and represented  junior and senior teams.

During his time at his hometown club, Kone caught eye of scouts and this brought him to France as he joined Guingamp in Ligue 2. Bakary Kone spent his first two seasons with reserve team and was promoted to first team in 2008. He was part of team that won Coupe de France in 2009.

After decent performances with Guingamp in 2011, Bakary Kone joined Lyon and during his 5-year stay at club, Les Gones were champions of Coupe de France in 2011-12 and winners of Trophee Des Champions in 2012. Lyon were also runners-up in Ligue 1 in 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons. towering defender made 141 appearances for club in all competitions including UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League.

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ISL transfers: Kone speaks on move to Kerala

Speaking on his move to India, Burkina Faso defender said: “I am really excited about signing for Kerala Blasters and coming to India for first time. I have heard a lot about Indian Super league from Nicolas Anelka and he had very positive things to say. I kw KBFC has one of biggest fanbases in ISL and I am motivated to give my 100% to club each time I take field. Can't wait to join my teammates and coaching staff in Goa and get started."

Bakary Kone comes in with a lot of experience. He made his debut for Burkina Faso at of 19 and was also ir captain during 2014 African Cup of Nations qualification campaign. With a total of 81 appearances, Bakary Kone is currently third most capped player for his country.

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' doubt on his abilities': Kerala Blasters sporting director on new signing 

Karolis Skinkys, sporting director for Kerala Blasters, was elated on having signed former Lyon defender. “Kone is a player with table experience and skill, having played for rewned clubs in top European Leagues. His presence will surely improve defensive setup of our squad this season. Kone is motivated to get in shape quickly and give his best to help us fight for top positions in League. I have doubts about his ability and quality he adds to squad”, he said. 

Bakary Kone is expected fly to India later tomorrow and is expected to reach Kerala Blasters team hotel on Saturday where he will undergo mandatory quarantine and tests before he joins his teammates and coaches for training sessions. Hero Indian Super League season is set to kick off on vember 20 in Goa. 

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Im credits: Bakary Kone Instagram