Crawley Town Football Club is delighted to announce that Colin Kazim-Richards has joined as the club’s Head Coach for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.
The former professional footballer has been plying his coaching trade in the Arsenal Youth set-up, having competed up and down the football pyramid in both England and on an international stage.
Over the years, he has consistently demonstrated strong character, resilience, and professionalism, earning the respect of teammates and staff alike. His ability to communicate effectively, motivate individuals, and manage different personalities within a squad highlights his natural leadership qualities.
UK Cypriot Colin whose mother is Turkish Cypriot and his father from Antigua
brings exceptional experience in leading groups of players, having frequently taken on leadership responsibilities throughout his career at various clubs. He often assumed the role of a team leader, setting standards both on and off the pitch.
Kazım-Richards began his youth career with Queens Park Rangers and Arsenal before turning professional at Bury. He later played in the Football League with Brighton & Hove Albion and moved to Premier League side Sheffield United.
After committing to Turkey internationally in 2007, he built a well-travelled career across Europe, playing for clubs including Fenerbahçe, Toulouse, Galatasaray, Olympiacos, Bursaspor and Feyenoord.
He also had spells in the United Kingdom with Blackburn Rovers, Celtic and Derby County, and later played in Brazil and Mexico for Coritiba, Corinthians, Lobos BUAP, Veracruz and Pachuca.
Between 2007 and 2015, he earned 37 caps for Turkey, scoring twice, and also represented the country at U21 and B levels.
Since his retirement, Colin has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, obtaining his coaching badges and plying his trade at all possible opportunities, including some work with the PFA.
Club Owner Raphael Khalili said:
“Following a thorough and highly competitive recruitment process, Colin distinguished himself as an outstanding candidate. He is a natural leader with extensive experience in the dressing room, and we firmly believe he is the right person to guide the club forward at this important time.
Colin enjoyed a highly accomplished playing career and brings a wealth of experience across all levels of the game. That depth of knowledge will be invaluable given our current situation. Just as importantly, he has the ability to connect with players, inspire confidence, and foster a strong, unified environment within the squad.
His ambition, determination, and clear vision for success made a strong impression on us. We are confident that under his leadership, he will install belief throughout the team and deliver a positive and sustained improvement in results.”