Spanish media refute claims of Barcelona legend Xavi applying for India head coach role

Reports suggest the former Barcelona manager never applied for the role.

Spanish media have strongly denied the surprising reports that claimed former Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez applied for the vacant Indian footbal team job.

According to journalist Ferran Correas, people close to the 2010 World Cup-winning midfielder have made it clear that Xavi neither submitted an application nor had any interest in taking up the role.

🚨🎖| People close to Xavi insist that he never applied for the head coach position of the Indian NT. They believe the All India Football Federation intentionally used his name to boost the profile of the role during their search for a new manager. [@ferrancorreas] #fcblive 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/89eZ5rg3kn

— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) July 25, 2025

Earlier this month, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) had opened the position for head coach of the Indian men’s senior team. The job received an overwhelming 150+ applications, with some familiar ISL names like Sergio Lobera, Antonio Lopez Habas, and Staikos Vergetis reportedly in the mix.

However, what truly caught everyone off guard was the appearance of Xavi’s name on the AIFF’s list—supposedly submitted via his personal email, though with no contact number attached.

Also Read: Who is Stefan Tarkovic? Slovakian manager shortlisted for vacant Indian head coach position

AIFF reveal Xavi’s interest in Indian Football Team head coach role

The Indian football team director, Subrata Paul, had earlier claimed that Xavi was indeed interested in the role. It was also added that the option was rejected due to financial limitations.

“It’s correct that Xavi’s name was there,” AIFF team director Subrata Paul said as quoted by TOI. “The application was emailed to the AIFF.”

But Correas’ report quickly poured cold water on those claims. People in Xavi’s camp believe the AIFF may have deliberately used his name to boost the credibility and global profile of the position.

They argue that Xavi has never shown interest in the role and is currently on a break from coaching after stepping down from his role at Barcelona earlier this year. He had also turned down job offers from major European clubs like Ajax and AS Roma, citing the need for a sabbatical.

Questions arise over AIFF’s HR practices and internal transparency

This sequence of events raises concerns about the federation’s internal processes. This also speaks about flaws in the HR processes, lack of transparency and communication, along with lack of verification and internal coordination.

Without checking with Xavi, let’s use basic common sense:– If Xavi wanted the India job, his agent would’ve made the call or sent an email– He reportedly rejected a $15M Qatar national team job with insane perks– AIFF posted the job online with a public email — anyone could… https://t.co/SrDuhAczhC

— Ashish Negi (@7negiashish) July 25, 2025

These kinds of events not only damage the credibility of AIFF but also jeopardise the reputation and also cast doubts on the federation’s intentions

If proven to be a publicity move, the episode raises serious concerns about the AIFF’s credibility and its handling of crucial appointments.

AIFF shortlists three candidates for the Indian Football team role

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has narrowed down its search for the next head coach of the Indian men’s football team, naming Stephen Constantine, Khalid Jamil, and Stefan Tarkovic as the final three candidates.

Constantine notably led the team from a dismal FIFA ranking of 173 to inside the top 100. Under his guidance, India also secured qualification for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup.

Khalid Jamil, who made history as the first Indian head coach in the Indian Super League (ISL), gained widespread acclaim after steering Aizawl FC to a sensational I-League title in 2017. His deep understanding of the domestic circuit and experience across various top-tier clubs make him a compelling choice.

On the other hand, Stefan Tarkovic brings valuable international pedigree to the table. The Slovakian coach has managed national teams like Slovakia—guiding them to a memorable win against Poland at UEFA Euro 2020—and Kyrgyzstan. His tactical clarity and ability to maximise limited resources could give him an edge in India’s evolving football landscape.

What’s next for Indian football?

According to AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey, the executive committee is likely to convene within the next 10 days, where the official announcement of India’s new head coach is expected—provided all formalities proceed without issues.

The newly appointed coach will face the immediate challenge of reviving the Blue Tigers, who have been struggling with inconsistent performances in recent months. The Indian Football team have slipped to 133rd spot in the recent FIFA Rankings and sit at the last spot in their group for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers

With the AFC qualification hanging by a thread, the focus must quickly shift to rebuilding confidence and form. The first major test awaits in October, when India take on Singapore in a must-win clash.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.