Mohun Bagan: What does Joni Kauko’s arrival mean for Mariners?

Add as a preferred source on Google

Ahead of the Kolkata derby, Joni Kauko has returned to Kolkata from Finland. As per reports from the Hindustan Times Bangla, he has joined Mohun Bagan training. Even though he came back, he won't be able to take to the field immediately.

Even so, his return is sure to make some waves in the Mariners squad. Especially considering they already have 6 foreign players registered. Hence, if they want to register Kauko, they will have to get rid of an ISL 2023-24 season registered foreigner.

Joni Kauko posted a picture of himself at an airport on Wednesday. He arrived in Kolkata and joined the Mohun Bagan training session on Thursday. It's not to say that he will take to the field on Saturday’s Kolkata derby game.

That is currently impossible as he is not registered with the club for the Indian Super League. He will still have to pass a fitness test with the club. If he passes, coach Antonio Habas will observe him during practice sessions.

Arriving at the training session, Kauko said, “Thanks for such a welcome. It's nice to be back here. I hope I can help the team as much as I can. I promise I will give my hundred percent again.”

Joni Kauko arrived at Mohun Bagan back in 2021 on a 2-year contract. If Kauko looks fit enough to contribute to the team like before, the Mariners could consider extending his contract. Before his injury, Kauko was involved in 16 G/A for the Mariners in 36 games.

Hence, if he comes back to the team, it can only strengthen Mohun Bagan’s squad. However, that would mean, the Mariners will have to get rid of one of the foreigners in the final third. There have been a few rumours that Hugo Boumous could depart.

However, a decision on that could be made after Habas is satisfied with Kauko. Hence, there may be some time before Boumous takes his departure from the club and fans see Kauko on the field donning the Green and Maroon Jersey again.