AIFF advertises for post of Indian football team head coach

AIFF dismissed Igor Stimac recently.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has released an advertisement for the vacant post of head coach of the Indian men’s senior and U-23 football teams. Igor Stimac held the post until recently, but the governing body for football in the country sacked the tactician after a disappointing exit from the second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. 

India also failed to secure a direct berth to the group phase of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia and must go through the third round of qualifiers to book their place at the continental showpiece. Due to these setbacks, the All India Football Federation dismissed Igor Stimac and released an advertisement to find his replacement.

The Indian football team are going through a rough period with Sunil Chhetri, the legendary record-breaking goalscorer, also hanging up his boots from international football. Whoever ends up succeeding Igor Stimac will have his/her hands full and must deliver immediate results, considering the nature of the industry.

Eligibility Criteria

“The Head Coach, Men’s Senior/U 23 National Team will report to the AIFF Secretary General and is accountable for the performance of the team in all matches and competitions it participates in during the term of the coach’s contract.” reads the job description on the AIFF website.

Some of the major responsibilities that are outlined for the potential head coach of the senior men’s/U23 national team is to select and prepare the team for major tournaments such as the qualification to FIFA World Cup/AFC Asian Cup/SAFF Championship and AFC U-23 Championship among others.

Some of the key requirements to be eligible for the position include having a minimum of 10-15 years of coaching experience at elite youth and senior football. Preference will also be given to individuals who have prior experience of being a head coach at the World Cup. 

Furthermore, the individual must have a minimum of an AFC/UEFA Pro license or equivalent. It will be interesting to see which candidate is selected for the post of head coach of the Indian men’s national team/U23 national team which comes with intense pressure and high expectations.