The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is set to make a formal decision on the future of national team head coach Manolo Marquez during its Executive Committee meeting on June 29. AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey confirmed the date during a press interaction on June 13, as questions continue to swirl around the Spaniard’s short and underwhelming stint with the Blue Tigers.
Appointed in June 2024 as a dual-role coach while continuing at FC Goa, Marquez was seen as a tactical upgrade with a calm, measured approach. But the gamble has yet to pay off. Since replacing Igor Stimac, Marquez has overseen eight matches — six friendlies and two competitive fixtures — managing just a single win, against the Maldives in March. His record stands at one win, four draws, and three defeats, with India yet to taste victory in a competitive match under his leadership.
“Manolo Marquez is a highly rated coach and has a good understanding of Indian football and the players. However, in the past few days, I have received several calls on whether the coach will continue or not. We have an executive committee meeting on June 29, where we will take a call on that. However,it is unrealistic to expect wins without scoring first,” said Chaubey in the press conference.
The recent setbacks in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers — a 0-1 defeat to Hong Kong and a goalless draw with Bangladesh — have intensified the pressure, prompting widespread calls for a coaching change.
Critics argue that the part-time nature of Marquez’s appointment hampered the team’s continuity and progress. With limited time for player integration, tactical development, and squad chemistry, India have looked disjointed and uninspired.
As the June 29 meeting approaches, all eyes will be on the AIFF to see whether it sticks with the Marquez project or opts for another reset in search of long-term stability.