Bhaichung Bhutia slams AIFF for India’s disastrous performance at Intercontinental Cup

Indian football team’s former captain Bhaichung Bhutia has criticised the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for India’s humiliating performance in the recently concluded Intercontinental Cup. The Blue Tigers lost to Syria (0-3), missing out on the title, and also drew against the lowly-placed team Mauritius in the tournament. The team went goalless throughout the event. Bhutia has called for a complete overhaul of the administration, including a new constitution and elections.

“I think it’s not a great sign; we have been on the decline for quite some time now. From being ranked in the top 100 to dropping to 125, I believe football needs a new governing body, new elections, and a fresh start. Otherwise, I think it’s only going to decline further,” Bhutia told PTI Videos in an exclusive interview.

VIDEO | Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia (@bhaichung15) has come down heavily on All India Football Federation holding them responsible for Blue Tiger’s humiliating performance against a war-ravaged nation — Syria (0-3) and a tame draw against a lowly placed Mauritius… pic.twitter.com/yaDyomi1uI

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 13, 2024

Hope a new committee is formed

Bhutia believes it is crucial to establish a new committee. “I think there has to be serious discussion and thorough debate to advance the game. Our constitution needs reform; the case is still in the Supreme Court. I hope the Supreme Court delivers a verdict as soon as possible. The federation needs a new constitution, a new body, and new elections,” the former India football legend said.

Federation should focus on sports

“Overall, it’s time for the federation to focus on how to advance Indian football. You cannot just have a Vision 2046 on paper and not implement it. It’s important now that the federation stops doing NGO-type work,” Bhutia said.

“In the last two years, the number of controversies and allegations has been very negative for the sport. I was at an Executive Committee meeting and it was unfortunate to see that we were discussing issues like the Bastar region’s situation rather than focusing on football. It’s great to engage in social issues, but the federation’s job is not only about social matters; it’s about performance and achieving results for the national and junior teams. So, it’s crucial we focus on that,” he added.

Recent resignation from AIFF

Recently, Bhaichung decided to quit the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF’s) technical committee in protest against the arbitrary functioning of the federation. According to Bhaichung, a committee was formed by the AIFF to advise on technical matters, including selecting a coach. Strangely, the technical committee was bypassed when the new coach (Manolo Marquez) was appointed to the Indian national team.

India needs a vision and a good set of people

Bhutia believes that he is not seeking a return to the AIFF. Regarding a comeback, he said, “I am not looking for it. I think India needs a good set of people with a clear vision for the game because that’s what we require right now. I have stepped away from electoral politics, but I am always here to support football. The fight for the presidency is not the main thing; it’s about advancing the game. We have good talent at the grassroots level, but it’s not being utilised effectively,” Bhutia said.