Xavi Hernández Not in Talks for India Head Coach Position

Despite growing rumors, there are no discussions between Xavi Hernández and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) about the Indian national football team head coach role.

WHAT REALLY HAPPENED?

Reports suggested the AIFF was considering former Barcelona legend Xavi Hernández for India‘s head coach job. However, these claims have been denied by people close to Xavi and international journalists. Both sides say no contact, official or unofficial, took place. Some sources think Xavi’s name was used to attract high-profile candidates to apply for the position, but Xavi never showed interest in the job.

WHY THE RUMORS SURFACED

The rumors excited Indian football fans, who liked the idea of a famous coach leading their team. The Indian national team recently parted ways with their previous manager after a disappointing campaign. India is currently 17th in the AFC rankings and recently finished fourth in the SAFF Championship. The federation is searching for a new head coach to prepare for World Cup qualifiers in September.

WHAT COMES NEXT FOR INDIAN FOOTBALL?

With the Xavi rumors cleared, AIFF will continue looking for a new manager to lift the team’s fortunes. India’s next match is a World Cup qualifier against Qatar, which tops their qualifying group. India sits third in the group, one point behind Afghanistan and two ahead of Kuwait. The next fixture is important for their qualification hopes. The team’s appointment decision in the coming weeks could be key for their progress.