Harvey Sarajian to represent Armenia national football team

21-year-old Harvey Sarajian, who plays for MLS club Orlando City, has decided to represent the Armenia national team, the Football Federation of Armenia (FFA) said in a press release.

Former Armenia national team striker and FFA Ambassador in North America Yura Movsisyan played a direct role in Sarajian's decision to represent Armenia:

“I have been following Harvey for quite some time. His performances have been very impressive. Playing in MLS, he has been highly effective, scoring numerous goals and also putting up impressive numbers for the second team. He is a very promising player. Following his recent strong performances, I personally contacted both Armen Melikbekyan and Yeghishe Melikyan to share my observations and assessment. I was convinced that he absolutely deserved a call-up to the national team. They also reviewed Harvey's performances and agreed with my assessment. I then got in touch with Harvey. I spent Saturday and Sunday in Orlando, where I met Harvey. He agreed to play for our national team and was very happy about the opportunity. Harvey's father and grandfather are Armenian, so the whole family was very excited to hear the news,” Movsisyan said.

Yura Movsisyan spoke highly of Sarajian's football skills:

“He is a tall, fast and technically gifted player. Playing in MLS is no easy task. The game there is very fast-paced and physically demanding, and he not only meets that level but continues to develop and improve. His physical attributes, footballing abilities and potential are exactly what our national team needs.”

FFA President Armen Melikbekyan also spoke about Sarajian:

“I am delighted that the Armenia national team will be strengthened by a young and talented player like Harvey Sarajian. His high level of professionalism, footballing abilities and experience gained in the American league will add a new dimension and quality to the Armenian national team. I am confident that he can bring new energy, competition and creativity to the squad.”

Sarajian, who is eager to contribute to the development of the national team, also spoke about his decision in an interview with the FFA:

“Choosing the Armenia national team meant a great deal to me. I was born and raised in the United States, but my Armenian heritage has always been an inseparable part of my identity. When this opportunity arose, I saw it as a chance to reconnect with my roots, represent my family and give the Armenian people something to be proud of. It was an incredible feeling when Yura Movsisyan came to meet me. Considering the remarkable achievements Yura has made in Armenian football, meeting him was an exceptionally special moment. Our conversation was truly inspiring, and it strengthened my belief and enthusiasm for the future of Armenian football. I know how much football means to the Armenian people. I want to contribute to the development of the national team, help it become more competitive and hopefully achieve something great and memorable together.”