Synopsis by enewstime: With only 13% success rate in his credit, Indian national Football team head coach Manolo Marquez’s tenure comes to end as per reports. Under Marquez, successful in Indian domestic football, Indian team’s FIFA ranking dropped.
New Delhi, July 2, 2025: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has mutually ended its association with national team head coach Manolo Marquez following a string of poor performances that saw India fall to 127th in FIFA rankings. Appointed in 2024 after Igor Stimac’s departure, Marquez managed just one win in eight matches with a 13% win rate.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF), according to a report has officially parted ways with national team head coach Manolo Marquez following a disappointing tenure marked by India’s slide to 127th in the latest FIFA rankings.
Despite being brought in to revamp the national side, Marquez struggled to deliver positive results. Under his leadership, India played eight matches, winning only one — a 3-0 friendly against the Maldives. With a win rate of just 13%, his time in charge was marred by poor results and mounting criticism.
The decision was approved during the AIFF executive committee meeting held on Wednesday. This development comes just days after AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey confirmed that Marquez’s position would be evaluated in light of recent performances.
Concerns peaked after India’s underwhelming start to the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. The Blue Tigers were held to a 0-0 draw by Bangladesh in their opening fixture and then suffered a crushing blow with a last-minute 0-1 defeat to Hong Kong, leading to a fresh wave of discontent.
Speaking after the draw against Bangladesh, Marquez had voiced his disappointment, stating, “Maybe this is the reality of Indian football. The positive side is we didn’t concede despite the chances they had.”
Marquez had taken over the national side in 2024 following the departure of former head coach Igor Stimac.
Before that, the Spanish tactician had earned recognition for his success in Indian domestic football, having guided Hyderabad FC to the Indian Super League (ISL) title in 2022. During his three-year stint with the club, he managed 74 matches, registering 37 wins and 21 draws.
He later joined FC Goa, steering them to a Super Cup victory. Uniquely, he handled dual responsibilities as both FC Goa’s head coach and India’s national team boss. Under his guidance, the ISL side played 62 matches, winning 38 and suffering 12 defeats.
Marquez’s exit signals a critical juncture for Indian football, as the AIFF seeks a fresh start to revive the national team’s prospects.
The AIFF now faces the challenge of appointing a capable successor who can restore momentum, improve international rankings, and build a cohesive squad for future tournaments. (Edited)
