During this golden era, Malavan introduced several players to the national team, including the legendary Ghafour Jahani, who became a symbol of pride for the entire city. It was during this period that Salehnia himself was invited to assist the national team coaching staff by none other than Frank O’Farrell, the former Manchester United manager. O’Farrell, impressed by Malavan’s rigorous practice sessions and disciplined play, added Salehnia to his team, solidifying his place among the country’s elite football minds.
Bahman Salehnia: The Educator-Coach
One of the defining features of Salehnia’s career was his approach to coaching as an extension of teaching. His background in education deeply influenced his training methods. For him, a player was not only an athlete but also a student—one who needed guidance in life, ethics, and discipline as much as he needed tactical and physical training.
Salehnia established a footballing culture in Anzali that emphasized youth development. Through school tournaments, weekend training camps, and mentorship programs, he created a pipeline that nurtured young players and turned them into professionals. His eye for talent and his commitment to long-term player development became the backbone of Malavan’s enduring success.
Challenges During the Revolution and the War
The Islamic Revolution of 1979 and the subsequent Iran-Iraq War disrupted life across the country, and football was no exception. The sixth Takht Jamshid Cup remained unfinished, and many clubs struggled to maintain regular practice and competition schedules. However, under Salehnia’s leadership, Malavan remained active. The team continued training and participating in tournaments held in different cities.
Despite economic hardship and political uncertainty, Salehnia kept the team alive. His insistence on discipline and unity provided his players with a sense of purpose and structure during chaotic times. He often dipped into his own savings to support the team and made personal sacrifices to ensure continuity. This period cemented his status not just as a coach but as a guardian of football in Bandar Anzali.