Indian Football Coaching Shake-Up: AIFF Recommends Jamil, Constantine & Tarkovic to Replace Marquez

A New Chapter Begins for Indian Football

In a significant development that could redefine India’s footballing future, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has shortlisted three top contenders to lead the Indian Men’s National Football Team following the departure of head coach Manolo Marquez. The shortlisted names are:

• Khalid Jamil (India)

   

• Stephen Constantine (England)

   

• Stefan Tarkovic (Slovakia)

   

These selections come after a disappointing start to India’s AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign, and over 170 global applications were reviewed by AIFF.

Related: India’s AFC Asian Cup 2027 Fixtures & Schedule

End of the Marquez Era

Appointed in July 2024, Manolo Marquez managed just 1 win in 8 matches, with India suffering a crucial defeat to Hong Kong China. With India’s continental hopes in jeopardy, Marquez’s contract was terminated by mutual consent, prompting the AIFF to launch an urgent global coach hunt.

Global Search Narrows to Three Finalists

From 170+ applications, AIFF has now focused on three tacticians with strong credentials, each offering unique strengths.

Khalid Jamil – The Homegrown Hope

• Current Role: Head Coach, Jamshedpur FC (ISL)

   

• Achievements:

   

  • Historic I-League Title with Aizawl FC (2016–17)

     

  • Led NorthEast United FC to ISL semifinals (2020–21)

     

• Tactics: Strong defense, counter-attacking football

   

• Historic First: If selected, he becomes the first Indian full-time head coach since 2005

   

History of Indian Football Coaches Since 2000

Stephen Constantine – The Trusted Veteran

• Nationality: British

   

• India Experience: Two successful stints (2002–2005, 2015–2019)

   

• Key Achievements:

   

  • SAFF Champion (2016)

     

  • Qualified India for 2019 AFC Asian Cup

     

  • Entered FIFA Top 100

     

• Tactical DNA: Discipline, structure, and maximizing Indian talent

   

Stephen Constantine’s Past Tenure with India: What Went Right?

Stefan Tarkovic – The Global Strategist

• Nationality: Slovak

   

• Previous Roles:

   

  • Slovakia National Coach

     

  • Kyrgyzstan National Team Coach

     

• Major Feats:

   

  • Beat Poland at Euro 2020

     

  • Qualified Kyrgyzstan for AFC Asian Cup 2027

     

• Tactics: Tactical discipline, 4-2-3-1 shape, emphasis on structure

   

📈 Top 5 Tactical Changes Needed in Indian Football

Comparison Table: At a Glance

What’s Next for AIFF?

The final selection lies with the AIFF Executive Committee, which will conduct interviews and evaluations. The new coach must revive India’s faltering campaign with key matches against Singapore, Bangladesh, and Hong Kong China on the horizon.

Why AIFF Needs a Long-Term Vision for National Team

What’s at Stake?

• Jamil’s appointment would mark a historic local breakthrough for Indian coaches.

   

• Constantine’s return could bring familiarity and emotional resonance.

   

• Tarkovic may introduce a European structure and global edge to Indian football.

   

Each candidate represents a different pathway — one rooted in domestic potential, one in proven experience, and one in international innovation.

Final Thoughts

India’s next football coach won’t just shape a team — they’ll influence the entire direction of Indian football’s future identity and international standing. Fans are hopeful, analysts are divided, and the ball is now in AIFF’s court.

Who should lead the Blue Tigers? Drop your comments below.

Follow One Swip News for real-time sports insights, tactical deep dives, and exclusive interviews.