Report: Igor Stimac's future uncertain, questions raised over Sinclair's appointment too

Claims have also been made regarding the team selection being influenced by ‘senior’ players.

The AFC Asian Cup campaign for the Indian football team ended in disappointment, as they failed to secure any points, score goals and conceded six in three games. According to TOI, this dismal performance has not only left fans disheartened but has also sparked discontent within the corridors of the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

An AIFF official told TOI, “At the moment, it is too precarious to make any sweeping changes. But, our poor performance in the Asian Cup has been alarming. The March World Cup Qualifying games could be the catalyst for us to decide the future.”

While India are expected to advance in the World Cup Qualifiers, there is uncertainty about Igor Stimac’s future. Despite a two-year extension in August 2023, the relationship between Stimac and the AIFF might have soured. His clashes with the inflexible Indian Super League (ISL) over player availability and camp time, coupled with reports of him being favoured for the Dinamo Zagreb job in the Croatian league, indicate a potential separation.

Igor Stimac received a stern warning from the AIFF not to criticize Indian football, the federation or the Sports Ministry on social media without prior approval. This came after a show-cause notice in September 2023 for unsavoury comments by Stimac in the media. The coach had emphasized the importance of World Cup Qualifiers over the AFC Asian Cup, causing discomfort within the AIFF and leading to inquiries about the federation’s intentions and plans.

The Asian Cup failure has also brought attention to the inclusion of senior players, despite their diminishing impact on the field. Reports from within the squad suggest a clique of senior players influencing team selection and the coach going along with it to avoid conflicts. Questions arise about leadership from the coach, peculiar team selection and confusing strategies.

Stimac’s tactics against Syria, planning to let the opposition control the game till the 60th minute before introducing key players, backfired, highlighting strategic shortcomings. The coach’s casual dismissal of the Qatar fiasco as the ‘reality at this level’ and persistent calls for the inclusion of Persons of Indian Origin footballers, against the country’s laws, further raise concerns.

The appointment of Trevor Sinclair, with little coaching experience, just before the Asian Cup, has also raised eyebrows. Despite the presence of a Technical Committee to ratify such appointments, Sinclair’s undefined role and the circumstances of his hiring for a reported $10, 000 fee for the tournament are under scrutiny.

An AIFF official confirmed that Sinclair’s appointment and Stimac’s report would be discussed during a review with the Technical Committee. Stimac and the coaching staff are expected to be in the capital for visa work and the review on Thursday. AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey, will also be present for the discussions.

The future of Igor Stimac as the national team coach hangs in the balance, with the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers serving as a decisive factor for the beleaguered AIFF to make a call on his continuation or departure.

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