István Urbányi returns to Maldives to lead national football team

18 Jan 2026 | 22:17
István Urbányi receives the national team jersey (Photo/FAM)

Hungarian coach István Urbányi has arrived in the Maldives to resume his role as head coach of the Maldives National Football Team, marking his third stint with the side.

Urbányi was welcomed at Velana International Airport by Football Association of Maldives (FAM) Vice President Hussain Shafiu, former national team goalkeeper Imran Mohamed, and other senior FAM officials.

Imran previously worked under Urbányi during his earlier tenure with the national squad.

In addition to serving as head coach, Urbányi is set to take on the role of technical director.

While he has yet to formally assume his duties, sources informed 'Voice' that arrangements are being made to complete the required documentation within the week.

Urbányi first took charge of the national team in 2009, guiding the Maldives to the final of the SAFF Championship.

He returned in 2012 and led the team to victory in an invitational tournament held in Sri Lanka.

Widely credited with reshaping the team’s playing style during his previous appointments, Urbányi brings extensive coaching experience from both Hungary and the United States.

Although the FAM had earlier confirmed his appointment, his arrival in the country had not been officially announced until now.

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