When did you start playing football?
From the time I could walk I had my first kick on a football and since then it became my love. It was in my blood, football. My father used to play and my uncle was a professional footballer. One of my uncles was a national award winning sprint athlete from Chittagong. I was born into a family of athletes.
What are your earliest memories of Bangladesh football?
I used to hear about the rivalry between Mohammedan and Abahani when I was young. We used to watch a lot of matches in the stadium in Chittagong, especially when the two arch rivals met.
How did you receive your break as National team captain?
I had only played a few matches for the national team when the opportunity came for me after Shujan got injured. I captained a couple of friendly matches against Nepal and Malaysia under coach Titu. When the new coach came, I was chosen as captain and have been playing the role for the last three years now.
What do you do as captain on the field?
I tend to talk in the field because I feel that it is very easy to lose focus of the bigger picture while the game is on. I feel that it is important to help your fellow players focus on the game by constantly reminding them on the field about what to do and when. It keeps the team in a string and also helps each player to give their hundred percent.
Why defensive midfield?
I like to be at the base of the mid-field so that I can help my team score from a greater range of passes. I feel that it is a position where a footballer’s involvement in the game is the most.
Any special football attribute you practice?
I always wanted to be a dead-ball specialist, because those are the situations where a good delivery can create a chance for a goal out of nowhere. I always practice my dead-ball skills and crosses.
Your opinion on the current football scene in Bangladesh?
We need better infrastructure. I would request the Government to take steps regarding this. Every club requires a stadium. What the football in this country needs most is financial backup. Money needs to be spent on games like football and hockey as opposed to only cricket.
Your reaction to Bangladesh Under-16 team winning the SAFF championship?
Our young players did a splendid job in the under-16 SAFF tournament. They have a lot of potential and now they need exposure in different countries, conditions and opponents for at least the next five years or so.
Are you happy with the general recognition of being Bangladesh’s best footballer in current times?
I feel great when the reporters tell me I am one of Bangladesh’s best players and also when my coaches appreciate what I do. Unfortunately, the people of the country do not necessarily recognize the potential we footballers have. I hope this changes and people of the country get to know of the best players from all forms of sports, be it cricket, football or even hockey.
Name: Mamunul Islam Mamun
Age: 26
Bangladesh National Football Team Captain
National Team appearances: 34
International goals: 02
Current Club: Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club
Jersey number: 8
Position: Defensive Midfielder
Favoured foot: Left foot
Favourite International Team: Argentina
Favourite local clubs: Mohammedan SC and Brothers Union
Favourite foreign clubs: Barcelona and Manchester United
Favourite players: Monem Munna (Bangladesh), Lionel Messi, Zinedine Zindane and David Beckham