Indian football is sliding down the fifa rankings: Mehtab Hossain (Right) Shared His Thoughts on the systemic challenges. Photo: AIFF/Instagram.
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Weak Grassroots and Training Infrastructure
Coaching Quality, Constant Changes & Lack of Continuity
India’s coaching has improved Thanks to Foreign Staff and AFF Licensing Programs. However, Indian Coaches Still Fall Short of Global Standards. Tactical Innovation, Data-Driven Training, and Individualized Player Development are rare in Most Local Setups. “See, there have been so many changes in terms of coaches. First, when I was playing, there was bob hughton. Then came wim koevermans (2012-2015), Stephen Constantine, Stephen Constantine, Igor Stimac (2019-2024), and MANOLO Marquez. So, The Philosophy Keeps Changing Every Few Years. This Revolving Door of Tactical Systems has meant that players are often stuck adapting rather than development.
“There might be a less miracles here and there. For example, we won the nehru cup after defeating cameroon.
Domestic League Still Lacks Depth and Competitiveness
Mental conditioning and high-spesure intexperience
Modern football requires more than skill; IT Demands Composure, Tactical Intelligence, and Mental Toughness. Indian players often struggle in high-stakes situations, such as in asian cup qualifiers or saff finals. The Lack of full-time Sports psychologists and performance coaches is a significant issue. Without the mental strength to handle pressure, technical training alone will not be enough.
Minimal International Exposure and meaningful Friendlies
In the last year, India has played only a less matches against the ranked significantly Lower or Slightly Higher. These games do not prepare the team for elite competition. India needs more high-level friends, top-tier tournaments, and overseas training camps to improve pace, technique, and adaptability. Competing Against Better Teams is Crucial for Development.
Inconsistent performance and strategic drift
Since Mid-2023, The National Team has struggled to achieve consistent results. In recent tournaments and qualifiers, the team looks tactically confused and lacques solid team chemistry. There is no clear vision for football, from youth to Senior Levels. Players often appear unsure of their roles, and long-term planning takes a backseat to quick fixes.
A system that lacques professionalism
India’s Golden Era in Football, during the 1960s and 70s, Saw the Nation Dominate The Asian Stage. However, mehtab beLieves the system has registered in terms of professionalism. “In the ’60s and’ 70s, we were a superior side. Place. Maybe we can take a Leaf out of Countries like Japan and have a Fixed Road, “Sighed Mehtab.
Technical ability isn’t enough with physical readiness
Mehtab also beLieves Physical Development and Sports Science Support Are Severely Lacking in India. Stressing the Need for Early-Stage Development, He said, “Coaching needs to start from a very young age-6 to 14. Science, Nutrition, and Fitness. “
“Our Food Habits and Muscle Power Need to Be Much More Focused on. Since many of our players come from from mediocre backgrounds, they Need a Lot more focus on nutrition. He pointed out that, Unlike African Nations, India Lacks Natural Muscle Power, Which is Crucial for Sustaining Itself on the International Stage.
“As long as there is no sports science, it’s challenging to develop. Techniquae don’t have the muscle power, and hence, they come up short against bigger and better teams. But i do see the light at the end of the tunnel, “He concluded.
The road ahead requires more than hope
India’s drop from a double-direction fifa ranking to 127 is not just a slump; It shows that the system needs to fix its core issues. Although Fan Support and Investment Have Increased, Indian Football’s Technical Foundation Remains Weak. To change this, The Aiff, Clubs, Government, And Other Stakeholders Must Commit to Long-Term Reforms. This should start with improving grassroots programs, coaching tactics, domestic competition, mental training, and interactive experience. Indian football has talent. What it needs is a better structure, a clear vision, and the courage to rebuild from the ground up.
