Overview

• The AIFF’s technical committee whittled down 170 applications to Stephen Constantine, Stefan Tarkovic and Khalid Jamil before sending the list for final approval.
• The coaching post became vacant after Manolo Marquez and the AIFF mutually parted ways on July 2 following a run of poor results that saw India drop to its lowest FIFA ranking in nearly a decade.
• Khalid Jamil has emerged as the frontrunner among the three shortlisted candidates, reflecting the federation’s inclination toward a home-grown coach.
• High-profile bids, including Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez’s surprise application, were ruled out on financial grounds amid budgetary limits.
• The executive committee is expected to vet the nominees and announce a new head coach before India’s September international fixtures and October AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.