Indian Football: Zavi, Kewl, Fouler – All applied for the job of Bharat coach and who are the contenders? , Football news
The All India Football Federation may not have found its next head coach yet, but the hiring process has already given an unexpected turn in Zavi Hernandez. The iconic Spanish midfielder and former Barcelona manager, were among 170 applicants for the job.The applications sent from Xavi’s individual email and highlighted in Green in the official shortlist, surprised the authorities. National team director Subrata Paul earlier told TOI, “Yes, Zevi was named. The application was emailed to AIFF.” However, the technical committee did not carry forward its candidature due to significant financial implications.
Everyone applied for the role of India’s head coach?
Beyond Xavi, the Federation was interested in a mixture of coaches with some famous and global lineage in Indian circles. The list included former India coach Stephen Constantine, Slovakia’s Stephen Torchovic, Liverpool veteran Harry Kewell, East-Blackburn Boss Steve Keen and familiar ISL facials such as Kibu Vikuna, Elco Shuttory and Khalid Jamil. Among them, Constantine, Torchovic and Jamil are shortlisted, with Jamil the only Indian contender.
What are Xavi’s achievements as a player and coach?
Rafinha of Barcelona is consoled by FC Barcelona’s then head coach Zavi, after the team’s defeat at UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Second Leg vs Paris St.-Gerrmen in 2024 (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Image)
Xavi’s CV speaks for himself. A product from the famous La Masia Academy of Barcelona, he performed more than 700 for the club, eight La Liga title, four Champions League crowns and played an important role in Spain’s World Cup win in 2010 and Euro Triymf in 2008 and 2012. In 2024.While the AIFF could not tolerate it, Zavi’s application is seen as a sign of the growing international appeal of Indian football. The final decision now rests with the AIFF Executive Committee, which will choose from the shortlisted trio of Constantine, Torchovic and Jamil.
