AIFF eyes Habas, Manolo Marquez & Park Hang-seo for Indian football team's head coach position

AIFF have started contacting coaches to schedule their interviews for the head coach role.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has begun contacting shortlisted coaches from a pool of 291 applicants for the vacant national team position. Acting General Secretary M. Satyanarayan confirmed the development through emails seeking further information from potential candidates.

The email aims to gather details “to make an informed decision, before moving to the next stage of the selection process.” Specifically, the AIFF is inquiring about continued interest in the position, salary expectations with benefits, potential start date, and any additional requests.

Sources close to the federation revealed that at least a dozen coaches have been contacted, including two highly successful Indian Super League (ISL) winners – Antonio Lopez Habas and Manolo Marquez. Park Hang-Seo, the mastermind behind Vietnam’s impressive run to the AFC Asian Cup quarterfinals, has also received an inquiry.

According to a report of Times of India, “There’s a growing sentiment within the AIFF that the next coach should possess a strong understanding of Indian football.” “Both Manolo and Habas have extensive experience in India, giving them an edge.

Their proven track record here is undeniable. However, salary expectations might be a concern, considering the potential compensation owed to former coach Igor Stimac following his contract termination.”

Habas, the ISL’s most decorated coach with two titles (Atletico de Kolkata and ATK) and a League Shield (Mohun Bagan), boasts the most games managed (110) in the league. Manolo, on the other hand, transformed Hyderabad FC from the bottom of the table to ISL champions in 2022, while also nurturing several national team players.

The AIFF, wary of potential compensation to former coach Igor Stimac for his contract termination, is mindful of salary expectations during negotiations.

This targeted approach follows the sacking of Stimac for failing to reach the third round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The AIFF had previously called for applications from coaches with extensive experience at the senior and elite youth level.

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