PANJIM: Keenan Almeida has been appointed as the head coach of Clube de Salgaocar for the upcoming 2024-25 Goa Professional League season along with other members of the technical team.
Almeida, a former right back, has had a distinguished playing career with clubs in the I-League and the Indian Super League, including FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC. His transition from a player to a coach has been marked by his dedication and passion for the sport. Since acquiring his AFC C Coaching Licence in 2022, he has demonstrated his coaching prowess with Churchill Brothers in the first half of the 2023-24 season of the Goa Professional League. His recent experiences and deep understanding of the game are set to bring a fresh strategic approach and vigour to Clube de Salgaocar.
In addition to this appointment, Clube de Salgaocar are proud to welcome Peter Vales as the technical director and team manager. Holding an AFC A Licence, Vales is a revered figure in the Goa football community, with extensive experience and a deep-rooted connection to the local football ecosystem and youth player network. His tenure as a player and coach for various Goan clubs and State teams has equipped him with invaluable insights and expertise that will greatly benefit the club.
Supporting Keenan in his coaching duties will be Godwin Rodrigues, an AFC C Licence coach. Rodrigues’ collaboration with the head coach is expected to form a robust coaching team, committed to propelling Clube de Salgaocar to new heights in the upcoming season. Anoop Abraham has been appointed as general secretary of the club. Clube de Salgaocar, formed in 2023, will be making debut in the Goa Professional League from the 2024-25 football season. The Goa Professional League is scheduled to commence in August 2024.
Dattaraj Salgaocar is the club chairman and president, while Vasudev Vikram Salgaocar is the managing director. With a focus on excellence both on and off the pitch, the club is committed to fostering football talent in the State.