Former Indian International Gouramangi Singh joins FC Bengaluru United as first team coach

33-year-old Gouramangi Singh, who played 14 years of professional football, has joined as the first team coach for FC Bengaluru United, which is currently competing in the BDFA Super Division league in Bengaluru. The Bengaluru-based club is looking to compete in the I-League second division next year.

The centre back, who last played for NEROCA FC in the I-League, revealed why he choose to coach rather than continue playing. “(Former India coach) Bob Houghton used to tell us to play every game like it was our last, because we would miss it after we stop playing. He was right. I miss playing a lot, and I feel I have a couple of years of football left in me. NEROCA wanted me back, but I cannot have my feet in two places at the same time. It was either coaching or playing, and I chose coaching." said Gouramangi Singh, repprted Sportstar.

Gouramangi, who played as a centre back for India in as many as 71 games, was all praise for his former national teammate Sunil Chhetri, who is two years older than Gouramangi. “Chhetri called and asked me what I was doing in his city (laughs). He invited me to join his birthday celebrations. That was an enjoyable night,” the former defender said.

“The way Chhetri has looked after himself - he is the best example for all youngsters. I reminded him that he is the only one from our generation who is still going strong and that he should keep playing for as long as possible,” he further added.

Gouramangi also credits AIFF technical Director Savio Madeira for igniting Gouramangi's interest in coaching. Moreover, Gouramangi met FC Bengaluru United head coach Richard Hood during the AFC A-Licence coaching course.

“Hood is an accomplished coach, and this club has a fantastic set up. Someone recently asked me why I joined this club when I could have taken an assistant coach role for an ISL side instead. It’s not about what level you are at. It’s about learning as much as you can," Gourmangi concluded.