Xavi’s Application for India Head Coach Turned Down Over Cost Concerns
A senior AIFF source told The Times of India that his terms “were beyond their reach” and that the federation simply could not afford the cost involved.
Former FC Barcelona star and coach Xavi Hernández. Photo/All India Football Federation [AIFF].
PANJI,
By Robert Assad,
July 25, 2025,
Former FC Barcelona star and coach Xavi Hernández, 45, reportedly applied for the vacant position of head coach of the Indian men’s national football team following the departure of Manolo Márquez earlier this month.
Members of the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) technical committee were reportedly astonished to find such a high-profile candidate among approximately 170 applicants.
However, Xavi’s application was swiftly set aside—not for lack of credentials—but due to the financial demands associated with his hiring.
A senior AIFF source told The Times of India that his terms “were beyond their reach” and that the federation simply could not afford the cost involved.
Indeed, even AIFF officials appeared stunned by the “too‑good‑to‑be‑true” nature of the submission.Earlier this month, AIFF accepted resignation of Spain’s Manolo Márquez, who parted ways with the federation on July 2 after a disappointing run that saw India win just one of eight matches under his leadership.
Following his exit, the federation announced an official search for a new head coach, inviting applications until July 13, and issued strict eligibility criteria including elite-level coaching experience and a continental license.
Despite Xavi’s international stature, AIFF has shortlisted three candidates—Indian coaches Khalid Jamil and Stephen Constantine, along with Stefan Tarković—as favored picks, citing their practical compatibility with the federation’s financial and organizational parameters.
Though Xavi’s interest illuminated the growing global intrigue toward Indian football, the federation’s decision reflects a pragmatic approach aimed at sustainability amid constrained budgets.
The search now moves forward with India-focused candidates poised to shape the next chapter for the Blue Tigers.
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