Chennaiyin fan favourite Schembri takes up his first coaching assignment

Chennai

Prior to his one last roar in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2019-20, Schembri spent a couple of years at Cypriot top division outfit Apollon as a player. For the upcoming season, the 34-yearold will be in charge of the club’s Under15 team.

“Even before I came to Chennai, Apollon offered me a coaching role. But, when I got the chance to play in India, I didn’t have second thoughts. As me and my family are currently based in Cyprus, I decided to (accept the offer),” Schembri, a UEFA B License holder, told DT Next from Limassol.

Having taken the “natural next step” in his football journey, Schembri is eager to get his debut coaching assignment up and running. “I am really hungry. I enjoy coaching more than playing as I will have a lot of influence on the athletes’ development. And, I love getting the best out of people,” he added.

Schembri, who recently completed his Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science and Coaching in Football at the Doncaster University (England), has been a servant of the game for more than 13 years. But, the former Malta captain emphasised that his vast playing experience would count for little in his new job.

“Yes, it will be of help. However, I need deliberate coaching practice. Knowledge and experience alone won’t be enough!” Once the ball gets rolling again, Schembri will work with Apollon’s Gen Next players, but the project could just be the start of something big in his coaching career.

“My objective is to coach at the professional level. You never know, maybe I will coach in India someday,” he said. During his one-season playing stint with Chennaiyin, Schembri was a huge fan favourite at the Marina Arena – the club’s home ground.

He was a key figure in CFC’s run to the ISL 6 final, scoring five goals and assisting three.

Asked if the Chennaiyin faithful can expect to see him at the club’s fortress in the future, Schembri responded, “The love the fans showed was out of this world and I truly appreciate it. The supporters will always have a special place in my heart. I would love to come back, irrespective of what position I hold.”