Gokulam Kerala sign former India U-19 starlet Muhammed Rafi

The young wing-back excelled for MA Football Academy in the Kerala Premier League this year.

Gokulam Kerala FC have signed young Kerala defender Muhammed Rafi for the upcoming season. The 20-year-old defender from Muvattupuzha in Ernakulam district has represented India in the under-19 category and has won the SAFF Under-19 Championship held in Nepal.

He has represented the country in the AFC Under-19 qualifying rounds and was also a part of several exposure trips to Russia, Turkey, and Vanuatu. Additionally, he was a part of the Bengaluru FC academy setup and has won the Bengaluru Super Division for the club.

Recently, he played for the Mar Athanasius Football Academy (MA Football Academy) in the 2020-21 edition of Kerala Premier League and was scouted by the Malabarians from the tournament. He had won one man-of-the-match award in the tournament and had also scored a goal.

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A versatile defender, Rafi played as both centre-back and wing-back for MA Football Academy. His attacking intent makes him an excellent wing-back, despite being just 19 years of age.

“It is an honour to sign for the I-League champions Gokulam Kerala FC. I have keenly followed their matches in the I-League and believe that I can add more vigour and strength to their squad. I look forward to a great season with the Malabarians,” Muhammed Rafi said, after signing on the dotted line with his new club.

VC Praveen, the president of Gokulam Kerala FC also shared his thoughts on the player. “Rafi is an upcoming footballer from Kerala with ample experience with the national team in various age categories. We have a philosophy to promote young Kerala players and his signing is another example of it. We want to promote as many local talents. I am sure he will have a bright future with the club,” he said.

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