Xtra Time Web Desk: On a day when Prabir Das signed for Bengaluru FC, ATK Mohun Bagan signed India midfielder Ashique Kuruniyan from the Bangalore based club. Kuruniyan was one of the stars for Blue Tigers in the recent Asian Cup qualification campaign. He joined the Mariners on a five-year deal on Monday. The Kolkata based club also announced the roping in of Asish Rai from Hyderabad FC.
“I have the experience of playing at the junior level in Europe (FC Villarreal C). The infrastructure of Kolkata is great. Any footballer’s dream is to play in Kolkata,” the Kerala-born footballer said.
“A few days ago, when I came down to play for the country at the Salt Lake Stadium, I saw the passion and interest of the people here about football. I’m looking forward to don the green-and-maroon jersey,” he said on joining ATKMB.
Known for his ability to play on the wing as well as side back, Kuruniyan comes from Bengaluru FC which he joined in 2019 from Pune City. He is a product of Pune Academy.
Rai, who shot into prominence under coach Manolo Marquez in Hyderabad FC, has played for India age group sides.
“I always had a dream to play for ATKMB and did not look back after getting the offer,” Rai said.