In a surprising development that has electrified Indian football discussions, reports suggest that Xavi Hernandez, legendary Spanish midfielder and former FC Barcelona coach, has been approached for the role of head coach of the Indian men’s football team. The news has left the All India Football Federation (AIFF) stunned, as they never expected a profile of such global stature to even be considered for the job.
How Did Xavi’s Name Emerge?
According to insiders, a reputed European intermediary proposed Xavi’s name while AIFF was reviewing candidates after Igor Stimac’s exit earlier this year. While the federation is focusing on coaches with Asian or Indian football familiarity, Xavi’s inclusion has:
- Sparked debates within AIFF committees
- Created excitement among sponsors and stakeholders
- Triggered curiosity in the global football community
Xavi Hernandez’s Coaching Journey So Far
| Team | Tenure | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Al Sadd (Qatar) | 2019-2021 | Qatar Stars League champion, multiple cup titles |
| FC Barcelona | 2021-2024 | La Liga title 2022-23, Spanish Super Cup |
After mutually parting ways with Barcelona post the 2023-24 season, Xavi has been on a sabbatical, evaluating his next managerial move.
AIFF’s Reaction To The Proposal
Sources within the federation stated:
“We were stunned to see Xavi’s name. His salary expectations, vision, and stature are at a different level. We respect his candidature but have to evaluate financial feasibility.”
While AIFF has not officially confirmed approaching Xavi, internal discussions indicate:
- His potential appointment could revolutionise Indian football’s global branding
- Major corporate partners may be tapped to co-fund his salary
- The move aligns with AIFF’s Vision 2047 roadmap aiming for Asian top-10 status
Financial Feasibility Concerns
| Previous Coach | Reported Annual Salary (INR crore) |
|---|---|
| Igor Stimac | 3.5 |
| Stephen Constantine | 2.6 |
| Proposed Xavi Hernandez | Estimated 30+ (based on Barcelona tenure) |
Hiring Xavi would require over 10 times the current coach salary budget, making corporate sponsorship or government support essential.
Why Xavi Could Consider India
Football analysts suggest three strategic reasons:
- Expanding managerial brand to Asia where Spanish coaches are gaining prominence.
- Lower competition pressure compared to European leagues, allowing experimentation.
- Long-term project appeal: Building a developing team’s structure from grassroots to elite.
Football Community Reactions
- Baichung Bhutia (former India captain): “If true, it will transform how the world sees Indian football.”
- Renedy Singh (ex-India midfielder): “Imagine young Indian midfielders learning from Xavi himself.”
- @IndianFootballFans: “Hire him even if he charges 50 crore. He will change everything.”
Possible Challenges In Xavi’s Appointment
| Challenge | Details |
|---|---|
| Budget Constraints | AIFF’s annual coach salary budget is less than his expected monthly compensation. |
| AIFF Approval Processes | Multiple committees and executive council approvals required. |
| Cultural Adaptation | Xavi has not coached outside Qatar or Spain; adapting to Indian football systems may take time. |
| Short-Term vs Long-Term Goals | AIFF seeks Asian Cup qualification first; Xavi might focus on long-term player development. |
Current Indian Team Scenario
| Recent Coach | Status | Last Major Tournament Result |
|---|---|---|
| Igor Stimac | Contract ended | SAFF Championship finalist, Asian Cup group stage exit |
The team is in a transition phase, aiming to build towards Asian Cup 2027 qualification and 2034 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a robust tactical identity.
What Would Xavi Bring To India?
- Tiki-Taka Philosophy: Inculcating possession-based, short-passing football
- Youth Integration: Promoting U20 talents into the senior squad, as he did at Barcelona
- Global Attention: Positioning India as an attractive destination for European friendlies and academies
Global Examples Of Big Names In Asian Football
| Coach | Country | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Fabio Cannavaro | China | Won Chinese Super League with Guangzhou |
| Sven-Goran Eriksson | Philippines | Reached AFF Suzuki Cup semis |
| Hector Cuper | Uzbekistan | Qualified for Asian Cup quarterfinals |
Xavi’s appointment could place India on this list of Asian nations hiring world-class managerial talent.
Future Course Of Action
AIFF is expected to:
- Finalise its shortlist within two weeks
- Hold preliminary discussions with shortlisted candidates
- Evaluate Xavi’s financial and strategic viability before formal negotiations
If finalised, Xavi could take charge before India’s next FIFA international window in September 2025.
Conclusion
While it remains uncertain whether Xavi Hernandez will become India’s head coach, even the possibility of his candidacy has triggered optimism and debate within Indian football circles. Whether or not AIFF can mobilise resources for such an ambitious appointment, this development signifies India’s growing aspirations in global football.
Disclaimer
This news content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as official AIFF confirmation or contractual negotiation update. Readers are advised to follow formal announcements from AIFF and Xavi Hernandez’s representatives for verified developments.
