The application of Spanish football legend and World Cup winner Xavi Hernández for the position of head coach of the Indian national football team is certainly a matter of pride and surprise for the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
Sports News: It is a shocking but exciting news for football fans that Spain's World Cup winner and Barcelona's legendary midfielder Xavi Hernández has officially applied for the position of head coach of the Indian football team. However, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) is unable to consider his application, and the main reason is—financial constraints.
Xavi Hernández himself sent the application
A senior AIFF source has confirmed that Xavi expressed his desire to become the coach of the Indian senior men's football team through his personal email. The source said, "Yes, it is true that Xavi has applied. He personally contacted the members of the technical committee and sent his bio-data. This makes it clear that he is serious about this position."
Xavi Hernández is considered one of the best midfielders in the history of world football. He was part of the historic Spanish team that won the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2008 and 2012 UEFA European Championships.
AIFF's Compulsion – Budget is not that big
This could have been a dream come true for the AIFF, but the federation's limited financial situation has become a major obstacle. Sources said that appointing a star like Xavi is not only about bringing in a big name, but it also involves hefty salaries, support staff, logistics and other costs. In the current situation, the AIFF cannot afford such expenses.
This situation points to the need to strengthen the financial structure and management in Indian football, so that such legends can be given opportunities in the future.
Xavi's illustrious career
- 2010 FIFA World Cup winner – Spain
- UEFA Euro 2008 and 2012 Champion
- 3 times UEFA Champions League winner – FC Barcelona
- 5 times La Liga Champion
- As a coach, has won several domestic titles for Al Sadd (Qatar)
- Recently served as the head coach of FC Barcelona
Condition of the Indian team – Falling ranking and new coach
Currently, India's FIFA ranking has reached 133rd position, which is the lowest level in the last 9 years. Earlier, head coach Manolo Marquez had resigned due to the poor performance of the national team. The three names shortlisted by the AIFF technical committee include:
- Stephen Constantine (Cyprus)
- Stephen Tarkovic (Slovakia)
- Khalid Jamil (India)
Khalid Jamil is considered the best contender among them, who has successfully coached in the I-League and ISL before. The AIFF had invited applications for the post of head coach of the Indian men's team on 4 July 2025. The last date for application was 13 July, and more than 170 applications were received during this period.
