FC Bengaluru United Reappoints Nallappan Mohanraj as Head Coach for Upcoming Season
Nallappan Mohanraj Returns as Head Coach
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], September 2: FC Bengaluru United (FCBU), the only team from Karnataka in the Indian Football League, has reinstated Nallappan Mohanraj as their head coach for the 2026-27 season. This decision follows Mohanraj's successful leadership that led FCBU to qualify for the Indian Football League last season, marking a significant milestone for the club as it aims to become one of India's premier football teams.
Mohanraj's first challenge this season will be the BDFA Super Division League, after which he will guide the team in their inaugural Indian Football League campaign.
This marks Mohanraj's third term as head coach of FCBU. His previous stint, which commenced before the 2025-26 season, resulted in the club achieving qualification for the Indian Football League, building on the solid groundwork laid during his earlier tenure.
Gaurav Manchanda, Founder of Nimida Sports, expressed, “We are thrilled to have Mohanraj continue with FC Bengaluru United. His leadership was crucial in our journey to qualify for the Indian Football League last season. More importantly, he embodies the culture we are fostering at the club and our dedication to nurturing talent and creating a sustainable football environment in Bengaluru. As we embark on this new chapter, we believe his experience and continuity will be invaluable.”
Debjit Chaudhuri, co-owner of FCBU, added, “Nallappan is familiar with this team, understands our goals, and has already contributed to a significant achievement for the club. We are excited to have him continue leading FCBU.”
Nallappan Mohanraj stated, “I am very happy to remain with FC Bengaluru United and to be part of this next chapter. Qualifying for the Indian Football League was a remarkable achievement, but our work is just beginning. We have the BDFA campaign ahead and then a new challenge at the national level. I look forward to building on our accomplishments and further developing the team and its players.”
Mohanraj brings a wealth of experience to his role, having played and coached at various levels. He holds an AFC ‘A’ Diploma and has previously coached India's U-19, U-20, and U-23 teams. He also led Tamil Nadu to the final round of the Santosh Trophy after an eight-year hiatus.
As a player, Mohanraj represented India at the senior level and played for clubs such as Mohun Bagan, ATK, and Chennaiyin FC, where he won the inaugural Indian Super League title in 2014.
His ongoing appointment underscores FCBU's commitment to continuity, long-term player development, and sustained competitive growth as the club gears up for a crucial season ahead.