Finn Geragousian: "When I hear the Armenian national anthem, my heart starts beating faster"

17-year-old Sunderland forward Finn Geragousian, who has Armenian roots, gave an interview to the press service of the Football Federation of Armenia after being called up to the Armenia U21 national team. The striker spoke about the beginning of his journey, the role of his family, his attitude toward Armenian culture, and what the national team means to him.

“I started playing football when I was four or five years old. Since then, I believed that football would become an essential part of my life. I didn’t spend a single day without a ball. My family saw this and supported me in everything. They were sure I had a bright future ahead. My grandfather played a big role in me becoming a footballer.”

According to Geragousian, his first team was a local academy, and he moved to Sunderland at the age of 12, where he continues to develop.

“My grandfather is Armenian. He told me a lot about Armenia and Armenian culture. He speaks Armenian and now he is teaching me the language.”

His first call-up to the Armenia U19 team was a significant moment for the forward.

“When I was first invited to the Armenia U19 national team, it was an amazing feeling. It was a great opportunity to learn more about Armenian culture, make new friends, and work with new coaches.”

The moment of stepping onto the field in the Armenian jersey holds special value for him.

“Wearing the Armenian national team shirt is a big responsibility. When I listen to the national anthem, I feel inspired — my heart starts beating faster. Sometimes it’s difficult to communicate with the players, but both the players and the coaches help me a lot. The Armenian youth national team is constantly developing, and I see that. I will do everything to score many goals and bring victories to the team.”

Geragousian highlights his height as an advantage in his playing style — being 194 cm allows him to win duels and hold up the ball with confidence. He says he is working on improving his technique and composure, and among forwards he names Harry Kane as his role model.

“A professional striker must stay composed and always look for the chance to score. These are the qualities Harry Kane is known for. My advantage is my height. I try to use it both in challenges and in keeping possession of the ball. I am working to improve my ball control.”

Speaking about his future, Finn does not hide his ambitions:

“I would like to play for Sunderland’s first team. Playing in the Premier League is a dream for any footballer. And of course, I really want to play for the Armenian national team.”

In the 2025/26 season, the forward scored 3 goals in 5 matches for Sunderland U18 and recorded a goal and an assist for Sunderland U21 in Premier League 2. Last season, he was also one of the standouts in the club system:

• U21: 5 goals and 5 assists in 15 matches

• U18: 9 goals and 4 assists in 16 matches