Subrata Paul Takes Charge as Director of National Teams: AIFF Focuses on Youth Development and Grassroots Football

In a pivotal move aimed at revamping Indian football, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) Technical Committee has appointed former India goalkeeper Subrata Paul as the Director of National Teams.

The committee, chaired by Indian football legend I.M. Vijayan, convened at the Football House on February 21, 2025, to chart a progressive roadmap for the nation’s football future. This decision, among others, underscores the AIFF’s renewed emphasis on nurturing talent from the grassroots to the senior level.

Subrata Paul: A New Era of Leadership

Widely regarded for his exceptional career and unwavering commitment to Indian football, Subrata Paul’s appointment brings a wealth of experience to the national setup.

Having represented India at the highest level, Paul’s transition into an administrative role is expected to bolster the performance and management of the national squads. His leadership is poised to inspire both players and coaches, ushering in a new chapter for Indian football.

Bibiano Fernandes to Guide U20 Squad

The committee also recommended Bibiano Fernandes as the head coach for the Under-20 men’s national team.

Fernandes, known for his tactical acumen and impressive track record with youth teams, is anticipated to play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of Indian footballers. His appointment reflects the AIFF’s commitment to ensuring consistent development pathways for young talent.

Focus on Grassroots: Building a Strong Foundation

Recognizing the importance of early talent identification, the committee proposed an annual inter-school tournament targeting boys and girls aged 9-12 at both state and national levels. AIFF Secretary General Mr. Anilkumar elaborated on the initiative, stating, “In the technical committee meeting, we recommended a pathway for youth development starting from the age of nine. The competition will begin at the state level with the finals culminating nationally, ensuring widespread participation.”

This structured approach aims to streamline the scouting process, allowing talented youngsters to seamlessly progress through the under-13, under-15, and under-17 categories. By aligning competitions with age-specific leagues, the federation seeks to create a consistent development trajectory that will enhance player quality across all levels.

Academy Expansion and FIFA Collaboration

To further strengthen the player development ecosystem, the AIFF has ramped up efforts to expand its youth academy network. With an existing project in Odisha and another nearing launch in Telangana, the federation is set to establish three more academies within six months, contingent on FIFA approvals.

Mr. Anilkumar emphasized the importance of these initiatives, noting that players will have the opportunity to train for up to three years, culminating in stronger representation at international competitions such as the Under-17 World Cup qualifiers.

Performance Evaluation and Future Goals

The Technical Committee has also formed a four-member study group—comprising Sajid Dar, Jeddy Almeida, Shakti Chauhan, and Gumpe Rime—to assess the performances of the men’s and women’s national teams. This initiative aims to identify key areas for improvement and ensure that strategic decisions are data-driven and performance-oriented.

Speaking on the broader objectives, committee chairman I.M. Vijayan remarked, “The modifications proposed by the committee members and the technical department are vital for developing quality footballers. Despite a large pool of grassroots players, our national team’s performance has not reached the desired standards. This new development pathway will certainly address that gap.”

With Subrata Paul steering the national teams and Bibiano Fernandes shaping the U20 squad, the AIFF’s comprehensive strategy underscores its dedication to long-term growth. The integration of grassroots tournaments, expanded academy networks, and thorough performance evaluations collectively signal a promising future for Indian football.

As the federation lays down these robust frameworks, the overarching goal remains clear: to cultivate a sustainable ecosystem that consistently produces world-class talent and elevates India’s standing in global football.

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