Imran Mohamed
Former Sri Lanka national player and Saunders Sports Club star Imran Mohamed has been appointed as the new Head Coach of the Sri Lanka Under-19 Football Team, Sri Lanka Football announced.
Imran, 48, brings with him years of experience both as a player and a coach. He is also the current Head Coach of Zahira College, Colombo, the reigning Sri Lanka Schools Under-20 Football champions — a team he once proudly represented as a student, playing from Under-12 to Under-19 level.
“I am truly honoured to take this responsibility. It is a privilege to guide the next generation of national players,” Imran told the Sunday Observer after his appointment.
Imran had a glittering playing career spanning a decade with the famous Saunders Sports Club from 1995 to 2005. He captained the club from 1998 to 2000 and created history as the youngest captain to lead Saunders to the FA Cup title in 1998.
He wore the national jersey from 1995 to 2004, serving as Vice-Captain of the Sri Lanka Team between 2000 and 2004. Imran’s journey also saw him captaining the Sri Lanka Schools Team, the Sri Lanka Under-19 side and the Sri Lanka Under-23 Pre-Olympic Team in 1999.
Imran further expanded his football career by playing professionally in India from 2001 to 2004 and later in the United Kingdom, representing Gillingham FC during the 2006-2007 season.
“I have always believed in hard work and discipline. Now it’s my turn to share my knowledge and experience with these young boys and I am confident we can build a strong, competitive side for the future,” Imran added.
Joining him in the coaching team is former Army SC player and Coach Mohamed Fawmy, who will serve as the Assistant Coach.
