SINGAPORE, 28 NOVEMBER 2025 – The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) has named Gavin Lee as the Head Coach of the Singapore Men’s National Team.
The appointment comes just over a week after the 35-year-old masterminded a come from behind 2-1 victory over Hong Kong, China, in Group C of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers on 18 November, as the Lions’ Interim Head Coach.
The result saw the Lions qualify for the Finals of Asia’s premier competition on merit for the first time.
Lee demonstrated a deep understanding of the team’s tactical identity in his time in charge of the Lions, establishing a rapport with players and earning the trust and respect of both players and backroom staff.
Lee’s appointment follows a months-long search for a new national coach. While overseas candidates had been shortlisted and interviewed, it quickly became clear that it was important to have a leader who could best help the Lions build on their momentum.
Inspiring trust and confidence
“The team’s recent displays of cohesion and resilience was built on Gavin’s familiarity with the players and staff, and the trust and confidence he has inspired in the dressing room,” said FAS President Forrest Li.
“He has shown just how effective that atmosphere can be for our Lions, and we are confident that he will help the team grow from strength to strength from here, as we kick off preparations for the Asian Cup Finals.”
A privilege and a responsibility
Reflecting on his appointment, Lee acknowledged both the privilege and responsibility of leading the national team.
“I first started coaching Under-4s [boys and girls] and now to be entrusted with the National Team is a true honour. It’s a privilege I don’t take lightly, and I hope it shows others that with commitment and hard work, opportunities like this are achievable,” he said.
In recent months, Lee’s meticulous preparation, detailed match analysis and emphasis on unity have helped forge a side that is tactically disciplined and collectively driven. His ability to connect with players – both established regulars and younger players – was a key factor behind his permanent appointment. These qualities will be central as the Lions begin their road to Riyadh.
Reflecting on the journey that brought him to this point, Lee acknowledged the early groundwork that set the team on its upward trajectory.
Building atop a sturdy foundation
Lee first stepped into the interim role in June, following the resignation of Tsutomu Ogura. At the time, he was Ogura’s assistant, familiar with the Lions’ tactical framework and personnel. He built upon that platform to propel the Lions to a spot at Asia’s top table.
“After the full-time whistle, the first phone call I made was to my wife; the second was to him — to thank him for being part of this journey. I don’t think we’d be here today without the early work that set us on our path,” he said of the Japanese tactician.
Under Lee, the Lions have displayed a renewed sense of grit, securing three away wins during the Qualifying campaign — two of them after coming from behind. It is an identity built on resilience and clarity, values that Lee believes define the team.
“First of all, we’re a team that won’t stop until the final whistle. We empty our tanks until the referee decides the game is over,” he explained. “That takes desire, courage and commitment, but also clarity — clarity in what we want to achieve and who we’re doing it for.”
“Those values are important to us. The football will follow. With whichever players are available, we’ll put out the best possible version of the team and always play for the win.”
The former BG Tampines Rovers coach is already plotting a preparation plan aimed at getting the Lions’ ready to compete in Saudi Arabia at the 2027 Finals.
Lee becomes Singapore’s first permanent local Head Coach since V Sundram Moorthy was appointed in 2016. Lee’s first outing as Lions’ boss comes in March 2026, in the final Group C fixture, with the Lions hosting Bangladesh at the National Stadium.
