The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is on the hunt for a new head coach for the Indian national football team, emphasizing the importance of results over high-profile names. AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey has stated that the selection process will prioritize candidates who can bring about tangible improvements in the team’s performance. The AIFF Executive Committee will soon meet to determine the successor to Igor Stimac, who resigned after a string of disappointing results, including nine losses and two draws in his final 12 matches in charge.
Chaubey emphasized the need for a coach who can not only develop Indian football but also enhance the national team’s performance. He told PTI videos, “I believe the result matters a lot. We will be looking at someone who can develop Indian football. And whoever gets appointed as chief coach, we want him to add a lot of potential to the national team’s performance.”
The incoming coach will face several crucial assignments, including a tri-nation tournament in October, featuring host Vietnam and Lebanon. Chaubey is hopeful that the new coach can deliver positive results from these events. He stated, “We are looking to utilize all the FIFA windows which we have in the month of September, October, November and March next year.” These tournaments, according to Chaubey, will provide valuable international exposure for Indian players. He added, “No matter whether we play against a lower-ranked team or higher-ranked team, the aim is to win. It will also create more match time for players. Yes, these matches will also give more international exposure to the players.”
Chaubey revealed an overwhelming response to the advertised position, receiving a total of 291 applications, from which 17 candidates have been shortlisted. The shortlist includes both Indian and foreign coaches. The Executive Committee meeting will involve a detailed discussion about the shortlisted candidates. Former Indian captain IM Vijayan, who currently heads the technical committee, will also be consulted in the selection process. Chaubey explained, “We are in touch with the technical committee. As Vijayan is overseas now, he will be consulted through a virtual meeting.”
Chaubey expressed confidence in players like Lallianzuala Chhangte to fill the void left by the retirement of former captain Sunil Chhetri. Chhangte was recently awarded the Best Men’s Player during the AIFF awards. Chaubey said, “Who is after Sunil Chhetri? This question comes to everybody’s mind. I think Chhangte, who has won the player of the year award this year, has a lot of potential. He can definitely make a long career. Such awards will inspire a player to put in an even bigger effort.”
