Mohammedan Sporting Club have appointed Argentine-born Spanish coach Fernando Santiago Varela as their head coach for the 2026-27 season, completing their preparations for a new campaign after making significant changes to their squad.
The 53-year-old, who holds a UEFA Pro Licence, arrives in Bangladesh with extensive experience in Indian football. His appointment was confirmed at a press briefing at the club’s boardroom, with director and football in-charge Lokman Hossain Bhuiyan making the announcement alongside team manager Amirul Islam Babu and other officials.
Varela began his coaching career in India with Gokulam Kerala, guiding them to the Kerala Premier League title in 2018. He returned to the club the following year and helped them win the Durand Cup.
He later took charge of Churchill Brothers, leading them to second place in the 2020-21 I-League. Varela subsequently managed FC Bengaluru United, where he won the Stafford Challenge Cup in 2023.
His most recent assignment was with Sporting Clube de Goa, making Mohammedan his latest challenge in South Asian football.
The appointment also marks a new direction for Mohammedan after Alfaz Ahmed left the club following the end of last season. Abdul Kayum Sentu took charge on an interim basis towards the end of the campaign.
The club have also strengthened their playing squad, signing nine footballers from Bashundhara Kings ahead of the new season.
Mohammedan had initially indicated that they were considering coaches from Uzbekistan and Denmark, but ultimately opted for Varela, whose experience in the region was a key part of his profile.
Varela will now be expected to turn Mohammedan’s strengthened squad into a competitive side as the historic club prepares for the 2026-27 campaign.
