Indian Football Federation Receives Coaching Application from Xavi – But Rejects It Over Missing Contact Details
In its search for a new head coach for the national team, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) set up a dedicated email address to receive applications from interested candidates. From the submissions, 170 potential coaches were shortlisted to lead the “Blue Tigers.”
According to The Times of India, one particular application stood out — it was submitted in the name of former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández.
The report stated that Xavi applied through email like the other candidates. However, the application raised concerns due to the absence of a contact phone number. Despite the credibility of the email address and Xavi’s recent public comments expressing interest in Indian football, the federation decided to dismiss the application because of the missing information.
National team director Subrata Paul confirmed to the newspaper: “Yes, his name was listed, and the application came via email. The only issue was the absence of a contact number in the designated field.”
Although the prospect of hiring Xavi was attractive, the AIFF deemed it unrealistic — particularly due to financial constraints. A member of the federation’s technical committee explained, “Even if he was genuinely interested, it would take a massive financial package to bring him on board. You must understand that Xavi is considered one of the greatest midfielders in football history. People often talk about Messi, but Xavi, along with Andrés Iniesta, was among the best to ever play for Barcelona.”
Eventually, the AIFF narrowed its list to three finalists, including former Australian star Harry Kewell. However, the focus shifted to Khalid Jamil, a former Indian international, who is now expected to take charge of the national team.
Meanwhile, Xavi remains in search of his next coaching opportunity following his departure from Barcelona in May. His managerial career includes winning the Qatar Stars League with Al Sadd and securing the 2022–23 La Liga title and the 2023 Spanish Super Cup with Barcelona.
