Kerala Jithin Janardhanan scripts history as Rayo Vallecano B assistant football coach

Jithin Janardhanan, a native of Kerala, has made history by being appointed as the assistant coach of Rayo Vallecano B, the reserve team of the renowned Spanish football club. At just 27 years old, Janardhanan has joined the coaching staff of Rayo Vallecano B, which competes in Tercera Federación, the fifth tier of the Spanish football league system.

Janardhanan's journey to this prestigious role began when he enrolled at the Escuela Universitaria Real Madrid, also known as the Real Madrid Graduate School, to pursue a master's degree in Football Coaching and Management. Prior to his appointment at Rayo Vallecano B, Janardhanan worked as an assistant manager for the C team and later progressed to his current position as assistant coach of the B team.

Born in Kannur to parents Janardhanan, who works at Dubai International Airport, and Deepa, a homemaker, Janardhanan moved to the UAE with his family as a child. He developed an interest in football at a young age, playing as a right-back for his school team and local clubs. However, recurring injuries forced him to give up his dreams of becoming a professional footballer. Despite this setback, Janardhanan remained passionate about the sport and decided to pursue a career in the technical side of football.

Encouraged by his parents, Janardhanan moved to Spain to further his education and coaching career. His dedication and hard work have been evident in his rapid progression within the coaching ranks, working his way up from assistant manager of the C team to his current position as assistant coach of the B team at Rayo Vallecano B.

Janardhanan's coaching career has also seen him work with young players, including Tahsin Mohammed, another footballer from Kannur. Janardhanan takes pride in seeing his players achieve success, such as when two of his players from the 2024-25 season made it to the FIFA World Cup squad for Qatar. He believes that with hard work, consistency, and dedication, anyone can achieve their dreams.

As a proud Malayali in the world of football, Janardhanan hopes that Kerala will cheer him on in this historic achievement.