AIFF responds to Stimac’s remarks, denies allegations of limited access and autonomy

In a statement, the governing body of Indian football said that the Croat’s comments to the media last week was made “with the sole intent of maligning the AIFF and showing its personnel in poor light.”

Published : Jun 24, 2024 18:24 IST , CHENNAI - 2 MINS READ

India’s Croatian coach Igor Stimac reacts during the Qatar 2023 AFC Asian Cup Group B football match between India and Uzbekistan at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al-Rayyan, west of Doha on January 18, 2024.
India’s Croatian coach Igor Stimac reacts during the Qatar 2023 AFC Asian Cup Group B football match between India and Uzbekistan at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al-Rayyan, west of Doha on January 18, 2024. | Photo Credit: AFP
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India’s Croatian coach Igor Stimac reacts during the Qatar 2023 AFC Asian Cup Group B football match between India and Uzbekistan at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al-Rayyan, west of Doha on January 18, 2024. | Photo Credit: AFP

The All Indian Football Federation (AIFF) has responded to the comments made by Igor Stimac after his termination from the role of Indian men’s team’s head coach on Monday.

In a statement, the governing body of Indian football said that the Croat’s comments to the media last week was made “with the sole intent of maligning the AIFF and showing its personnel in poor light.”

Former Indian football team head coach Igor Stimac held a chaotic press conference where he levelled a myriad of accusations on the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) on Friday.

The federation has also denied his allegations that he was not given access to any AIFF officials and had several in-person and virtual interactions with president Kalyan Chaubey during his tenure.

In the statement, AIFF has admitted to Strimac’s remarks on the unavailability of the GPS equipment but said that it was unavailable for only 50 days and the Croat’s claims of over 200 days is “obviously misleading and an attempt to exaggerate the matter for effect.”

The statement also addressed Strimac’s selection of support staff. The federation said that his demands of having particular person had also gone unquestioned but said it was the subject of disquiet among many players.

Despite all the support, the coach always sought to deflect blame and according to him everything and everyone else was wrong and responsible for any given situation except himself.

The statement also said that various players who had brought their concerns regarding Mr. Stimac’s coaching style and tactics to the attention of the AIFF on multiple occasions.

More to follow

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