Skënder Brahimaj, a beloved and iconic figure in Albanian football, passed away, leaving a lasting legacy in the country’s sports history.

Born on September 19, 1936, in Lepenica, Vlorë, Brahimaj began his football journey at the age of 17 with Flamurtari. In 1962, he was recognized as one of Albania’s top 10 football players, solidifying his status in a career that spanned two decades. Following his tenure as a player, Brahimaj transitioned into coaching and physical education, where he dedicated himself to nurturing new talent.

During the 1980s, he took on the role of coach for the Tepelena team, where he discovered and trained rising star Fotaq Strakosha. Between 1990 and 2000, Brahimaj returned to Flamurtari as both coach and later as Club Director, fostering a new generation of athletes, including Uran Xhafa, Gëzim Troqe, Cane Ahmeti, Kreshnik Çipi, and Strakosha again.

Skënder Brahimaj’s unwavering dedication to Albanian football transformed him into a symbol of passion and commitment, celebrated not only in Vlorë but across the entire Albanian sports community.

/a.c/