The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has dismissed Igor Stimac as the head coach of the Indian men’s national football team after a disappointing FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers campaign. Stimac, who had a successful tenure with notable wins, including two SAFF Championships, was relieved of his duties with immediate effect.
At the age of 39, Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has announced his retirement from international football. The announcement came through a video on his social media handle, with Chhetri acknowledging the support of fans and reflecting on his illustrious career. Chhetri is the third-highest active goal scorer in the world, behind only Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, with 94 goals in 150 appearances for India. He also has an impressive club goal tally of 252 goals in 515 appearances. Chhetri’s contributions to Indian football have been recognized with the Arjuna Award (2011), Padma Shri (2019), and Khel Ratna Award (2021), making him the first footballer to receive the country’s highest sporting honor.
Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian football captain, has announced his international retirement after a brilliant 19-year career. His journey, spanning three coaches and numerous milestones, will culminate in Kolkata on June 6th, where he will play his final match for India against Kuwait. Chhetri’s exceptional goal-scoring prowess, with 94 goals in 150 games, has made him an icon not only in India but also on the international stage. His dedication to fitness and discipline has set a new standard for Indian footballers, and his achievements, including the Arjuna Award and Padma Shri, have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest Indian athletes of all time.
Sunil Chhetri’s mother, Sushila, and wife, Sonam Bhattacharya, were overcome with emotion upon learning of his decision to retire from international football. Chhetri, India’s all-time top scorer and most-capped player, announced his retirement on Thursday, with his final match set to be the FIFA World Cup qualifier against Kuwait on June 6.
The Indian football landscape has seen a resurgence with the return of Kolkata’s ‘Big Three’ clubs, Mohammedan Sporting, East Bengal, and Mohun Bagan, to the top flight I-League. Additionally, Sporting Club Bengaluru’s successive promotions to enter the I-League marks a significant moment for Karnataka’s football scene. The Indian football pyramid now consists of five tiers, providing a balanced pathway for clubs to progress through the ranks.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) Technical Committee has recommended former player Langam Chaoba Devi as the new head coach for the senior women’s national football team. The announcement came after a virtual meeting of the committee to discuss coaching appointments for the national teams. Chaoba Devi was recommended based on her experience with the team, having recently guided them during the Turkish Women’s Cup in February 2024. Along with Chaoba Devi, Priya PV and Ronibala Chanu have been proposed as assistant and goalkeeping coaches, respectively.
