Head Coach – India Men’s Senior/U 23 National Team

Job Description
The Head Coach, Mens Senior/U 23 National Team will report to the AIFF Secretary General and is accountable for the performance of the team in all matches and competitions it participates in during the term of the coachs contract
The Head Coach will work closely with the National Team Department, the National Team Director, Technical Director, to strengthen the position and performances of the Mens Senior National Team

Responsibilities
The primary purpose of the position is to select, monitor, and prepare the Senior Mens National Team and the U23 Mens National Team for the various matches and competitions with qualification to FIFA World Cup/AFC Asian Cup/SAFF Championship and AFC U-23 Championship and a remarkable preparation and performance in the Asian Games 2026 among key targets

To report regularly to the AIFF Secretary General and the Technical Committee and work in close cooperation with the National Team Department, the National Team Director, Technical Director

To provide advice to the Secretary General and the Technical Director in respect of technical matters generally

To lead and drive team culture and harmony with players and staff and to achieve professional excellence that aligns with AIFFs expectations

Lead strategic, tactical, technical, team selection, and team culture direction of the Mens Senior/U 23 National Team

Attend and lead the team at all matches, training sessions, and camps of the relevant National Team

Provide direction, support, and advice to coaching staff on all on-field matters relating to the National Team

Allocate tasks and duties to assistant coaches and manage their performance to meet expected standards

Liaise with the team medical & physio staff with regard to rehabilitation/training and the availability of injured players

Work with National Team staff to ensure the team has the appropriate medical, conditioning, and other necessary support services

Cooperate with the Technical Director to assist in the mentoring of other Indian coaches

Provide mentoring to other National team (age-group) coaches from time to time, developing their coaching skills and effectiveness

Observe the performance of players and coaches in lower age-groups when not occupied with senior national team scouting, camps, and competitions

Participate in seminars/workshops/conferences organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MYAS)/ Sports Authority of India (SAI), as permitted by the National Team schedule

Provide advice to the Secretary General and the National Team department on off-field matters relating to the National Team, when required

Provide advice and assessment of the performance of the National Team to the Secretary General, Technical Committee, Technical Director, National Team Director

Upon request, consult with the Technical Director and National Team Director in relation to the technical direction and development of football in India

Provide strong leadership to the playing and coaching groups that encourages a supportive team environment

Understanding of industry best practice with respect to talented player development, sports science, game plan and game sense, use of available technology, and skills development

Positive working relationship with President, Secretary General, Technical Director, Media, and other relevant administrative staff

Good working relationship and cooperation with the media and communications department

Mandatory cooperation with AIFF on media and other appearances and promotions to meet commercial (including media, sponsor, and broadcast commitments) and game promotion requirements, including social media, website, and e-learning as directed by AIFF

Be able to conduct any media-related interviews, press conferences, or filming requests pre-approved by AIFF
Also, represent the Federation where requested at official functions, events, and initiatives

Communicate effective and consistent media messages

Role model & ambassador of AIFF

Develop a sound working relationship with AIFF partners, corporate sponsors & media

Annual Review conducted by Secretary General, Technical Director

Key Requirements Football & Operational
Minimum of 10-15 years of coaching experience at the elite youth and senior level football

Experience as the first team coach (head coach) of the senior national team will be preferred with experience of coaching in the World Cup and continental championship qualifiers an advantage

Minimum of AFC/UEFA Pro license or equivalent

Experience as a football player (not necessarily at the highest national level)

Ability to further develop the current team/staff performance environment into a consistently successful one

Efficient plan much in advance and make the best use of the available resources and deliver within the budget

Have the ability to be resourceful and manage the players and staff to a high level of football and personal excellence within budgetary guidelines

Sound experience in the management of relationships; understanding needs, cultural sensitivity, and working with AIFF partners including media and sponsors

Leadership, strategic, and networking skills

Willingness to share knowledge and mentor other national team and Indian coaches

A dynamic, confident communicator with the ability to adapt style and approach as and when required

Attention to detail and excellent organization skills

Ability to work in a team environment and to prioritize team objectives over individual objectives

Respectful Create a truthful, hard-working environment that fosters a respectful atmosphere within the team and with other technical and administrative staff

Highest standards of professional and personal conduct, especially confidentiality, and respect for colleagues

Willingness to cooperate with and support AIFFs media and digital requirements
Enthusiasm and willingness to be flexible in approach to achieve desired outcomes
Interested candidates should mail their applications along with CVs, cover letter, and proof of relevant qualification at aiff@the-aiff
com with the subject as ?Application for the Post of SNMT Head Coach Name? and also state their expected remuneration
Only shortlisted candidates will be called, and they may be asked to make a presentation and/or attend an interview at a time & date which will be communicated on the e-mail ID provided by the shortlisted applicant

AIFF reserves the right to cancel/reject the vacancy or applications without assigning any reason