Ashique Kuruniyan reveals that ATK Mohun Bagan's 'massive fan base' played a big role in his transfer

Indian Super League (ISL) side, ATK Mohun Bagan's new signing, Ashique Kuruniyan has opened up on his move to the Mariners, revealing that the "massive fan" base that the Indian footballing giants have was a deciding factor in his transfer.

Kuruniyan moved to ATK Mohun Bagan from Bengaluru FC earlier in the summer, signing a five-year deal with the Mariners and is looking to join up with Indian teammates Liston Colaco and Manvir Singh in what could be an all-Indian attacking line-up at ATK Mohun Bagan.

"Well this club has shown genuine interest in me for quite sometime now and I just felt it was the right time in my career to make the move. ATKMB have huge ambitions and will always be in the hunt for trophies whether in India or in the Asian continental level. Another deciding factor is obviously been the massive fan base and support that the club has, it’s so important for a player to feel the love and support from such wonderful football fans," he said on signing for the Mariners.

The youngster who came into prominence after signing for LaLiga side, Villarreal in 2016 on loan, though it was only at Pune City that he displayed his prowess, with his performances leading to Bengaluru FC to come calling for his services in 2019.

His move to ATK Mohun Bagan will be a major boost for both the player and the club, with the youngster sure to develop and improve under the tutelage of Juan Ferrando. It will be interesting to see how he performs for the Mariners, considering that they are one of the top clubs in the Indian footballing sphere.