Welcome to another edition of the Indian football news roundup. If you are a hardcore Indian football fan who just missed out on today’s top news and headlines, then you have come to the right place.
Which Italian manager has pitched his name to coach India? What repercussions will East Bengal face for boycotting Super Cup? And, where will Miku’s next venture be after his time with ISL champions Bengaluru FC goes up? Don’t worry, we have got all of that covered here.
In case you missed out on the previous edition of the Indian football news roundup, you can check it out here.
Igor Stimac, Gianni De Biasi, Hakan Ericson, Massimiliano Maddaloni throw their hat to coach India
According to renowned national daily Times of India, AIFF has received around 40 applications for the post of head coach of India. While names like Ashley Westwood, Eelco Schattorie, and Albert Roca were known beforehand, some new names like Igor Stimac, Gianni De Biasi, Hakan Ericson, and Massimiliano Maddaloni have also emerged.
The first name was at the helm of the Croatian national football team and led the team to the 2014 World Cup Qualification. However, he resigned before the quadrennial extravaganza began owing to backlash from the fans.
The second name recently ended his tenure as the head coach of Deportivo Alaves in La Liga. Since most of the I-League and ISL clubs implement the Spanish style of football, his addition will bolster the Indian players’ development immensely. Moreover, he even guided Albania to their Euro 2016 Qualification, something which they hadn’t before.
The third name is a wild card and employing him will be a huge gamble. Since 2009, he has looked over the matters of the U-21 team of Sweden national team either as the head coach or as the Technical Director. Under his tutelage, Sweden won the 2015 UEFA U-21 Championships beating Portugal in the finals.
Massimiliano Maddaloni is a shrewd Italian coach who would like to come out of the shadow of Marcelo Lippi. The former has been the assistant to the latter during his tenure in both Italy and Guangzhou Evergrande.
East Bengal to be banned for one year over Super Cup boycott
According to Sportskeeda, AIFF might ban East Bengal for one year over their Super Cup boycott. The Red and Golds had taken the bold step to showcase their unity alongside other I-League clubs who wanted a proper roadmap from the AIFF regarding their future in the top division of the country.
Mohun Bagan hadn’t registered their squad whereas Churchill Brothers and NEROCA gave in writing that they won’t be participating in the Super Cup. East Bengal did release a public statement over their withdrawal but it is believed that nothing in personal was communicated to the AIFF.
That is the sole reason why such a harsh decision is being taken over East Bengal. Actions are likely to be taken against the other I-League clubs as well but they might not be that severe.
ISL Transfers: Miku to join ATK?
According to Talksports 24×7, Bengaluru FC star striker Miku is likely to join ATK for the next season. The website mentions that the Venezuelan would sail ATK’s ship only if there is a significant hike in his salary.
It is no secret that Miku’s contract runs its course by the end of the season. He had hinted a move to South America previously but he might remain in India if a lucrative offer comes around, either from ATK or Bengaluru FC.
