Former India football coach Stephen Constantine has sharply criticised the All India Football Federation, blaming its decisions for the national team’s current struggles. Speaking about the side’s decline, Constantine said Indian football has moved in the wrong direction and argued that the federation must take responsibility.
Constantine, who previously led India during a period that saw the team reach a notable FIFA ranking high, suggested he should have been considered for the coaching role again. His comments reflect frustration not only with results on the pitch, but also with how leadership choices have been handled off it.
A major part of his criticism was directed at the appointment of Khalid Jamil as coach. Constantine questioned whether the AIFF had selected the right person for the job, raising concerns about whether the role required a different level of experience and planning at the national-team level.
The remarks add to the debate around the future of Indian football and the federation’s long-term strategy. With the team under pressure and scrutiny increasing, Constantine’s intervention has again put the focus on coaching decisions, development standards and the overall direction of the national setup.
