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Igor GamulaSoviet and Ukrainian footballer, midfielder, coach
Date of Birth: 17.02.1960
Country:  Ukraine |
Content:
- Igor Gamula: Life and Career
- Coaching Career
- Stints in Latvia
- Return to Ukraine and Russia
- FC Rostov Controversy and Aftermath
- Controversial Remarks
- Disciplinary Action
- Legacy
Igor Gamula: Life and Career
Early Life and CareerIgor Vasilyevich Gamula was born on February 17, 1960, in Alchevsk, Ukrainian SSR. As a midfielder, he played in the Soviet Top League for Zorya Voroshilovgrad and SKA Rostov, winning the Soviet Cup with SKA in 1981.
Coaching Career
After retiring from playing, Gamula embarked on a coaching career. In 1992, he became coach of Tavriya Kherson. From 2001 to 2004, he served as coach of Chernomorets Novorossiysk, holding the position of head coach on multiple occasions.
Stints in Latvia
In 2007, Gamula became head coach of Daugava Daugavpils in Latvia. He was dismissed in November of that year after failing to qualify the team for European competitions. He later became director of Dinaburg Daugavpils and was reappointed head coach of Daugava in 2008.
Following a merger between Dinaburg and Daugava in 2009, Gamula became head coach of the combined team but was fired in March.
Return to Ukraine and Russia
Gamula returned to Ukraine in 2009, coaching Zakarpattia Uzhhorod. He left in 2011 after the team was relegated from the Ukrainian Premier League. In July 2011, he joined FC Rostov in Russia as a scout and later became head coach of their youth team.
FC Rostov Controversy and Aftermath
AppointmentIn September 2014, Gamula was appointed acting head coach of FC Rostov after the departure of Miodrag Božović and later confirmed as permanent coach.
Controversial Remarks
During a press conference, Gamula was asked about the potential signing of Benot Angbwa and replied that his team already had six "black" players. This led to allegations of racism and the refusal of Siyanda Xulu to train under Gamula.
Disciplinary Action
The Russian Football Union (RFS) investigated the incident and suspended Gamula for five matches. In December 2014, he stepped down as head coach but remained with Rostov as a senior youth team coach.
Legacy
Igor Gamula is known for his expressive and emotional personality, which often manifests on the field and in his media appearances. Despite the controversy surrounding his coaching career, Gamula remains a notable figure in football circles.
