Gokulam Kerala FC have signed young Kerala defender Muhammed Rafi for the upcoming season of I-League. The 20-year-old defender from Muvattupuzha in Ernakulam district has represented India in the U-19 category and has won the SAFF U-19 Championship held in Nepal.
He has also represented the country in the AFC U-19 qualifying rounds and was also part of several exposure trips (Russia, Turkey, and Vanuatu). He was part of the Bengaluru FC academy setup and has won the Bangalore Super Division for the club.
Recently, he played for the Mar Athanasius College team in the Kerala Premier League and he was scouted by the Malabarians from the tournament. Moreover, he has a man of the match award and a goal to his name in the competition. He played mainly as a centre-back for MA College, but was also deployed as a wing-back to bring more attacking intent later.
“It is an honour to sign for I-League champions Gokulam Kerala FC. I have keenly followed their matches in the I-League and I believe, I can add more vigor and strength to their squad. I look forward to a great season with the Malabarians,” said Rafi.
“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 Rafi will have a bright future with the club,” said VC Praveen, the President of Gokulam Kerala FC.
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