New Delhi, Aug 13 (PTI): Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia expressed sympathy for Khalid Jamil, who has stepped in as the national football team's coach during a challenging time for the sport in India. Bhutia suggested that the All India Football Federation (AIFF) might have favored Jamil due to his potential lack of demands.
Jamil replaces Spaniard Manolo Marquez, marking the first time in 13 years that an Indian has assumed the role of head coach of the senior national team.
According to Bhutia, "We've had two world-class coaches depart—Igor Štimac, who coached the Croatian team, and Manolo Marquez, a renowned coach with a strong history." After participating in the Fidel Castro Centenary Football Cup's exhibition match, he told PTI Videos, "If these two couldn't work with the federation, perhaps it’s because they're looking for someone who will adhere to the federation’s desires without bringing forth their own ideas and demands."
Bhutia feels sorry for Jamil, a relatively new domestic coach, who is taking over during such a turbulent phase. Jamil was chosen over candidates like Stephen Constantine and Stefan Tarkovic.
Taking aim at AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey, Bhutia remarked, "For Kalyan, Jamil is the right choice because Indian coaches typically don’t have many demands. Chaubey has been candid about financial issues, with the federation reportedly unable to afford the salaries of coaches. Bhutia voiced concerns over where the funds have gone, hinting at recurring scams."
Chaubey has acknowledged the crisis in club football, partly blaming "self-claimed reformers with vested interests" for the turmoil surrounding the Indian Super League. In response, Bhutia pointed out, "He's saying it's in crisis but fails to mention his role as head of the federation that contributed to these issues. It’s the responsibility of the federation president to address these crises, and if Chaubey can't, someone else should take charge."
Bhutia and Chaubey have a history of verbal disagreements, with Bhutia often questioning Chaubey’s leadership, even describing the AIFF as a "circus." Chaubey, on the other hand, has denied such accusations, advocating instead for constructive contributions.
The recent passage of the National Sports Governance Bill in the Rajya Sabha, following its approval in the Lok Sabha, is another major development. Bhutia welcomed the bill, expressing hope for increased transparency and competent leadership in sports administration. "I welcome the Sports Bill," he said. "I wish the BCCI was included too. With ongoing struggles in football and the Olympics, I hope this bill ushers in transparency and appoints the right individuals to the right jobs."
Concerns were also raised over whether the bill might centralize power, but Bhutia stressed the importance of transparency and fair governance for the betterment of sports.
The AIFF's decision to conduct the Super Cup before the ISL also drew Bhutia’s criticism, particularly their handling of administrative issues. He stressed the need for better timing between the Supreme Court’s ad hoc committee's appointment during the U-17 Women’s World Cup and the expiration of media rights. "I’ve been advocating for clarity on whether this committee continues, but it was ignored," Bhutia noted.
India is set to participate in the CAFA Nations Cup 2025, starting August 29 in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Bhutia called it “a great tournament” but questioned the disordered scheduling, suggesting discussions should have taken place with ISL, FSDL, and the new coach. "Messy organization can result in top players missing out on club representation if the ISL begins abruptly," he added.
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