The All India Football Federation is expected to make important decisions regarding the leadership of the India Under 15 national football team after Ranjit Bajaj reportedly declined the federation's offer to take up the role of team manager. The development comes as the AIFF continues preparations for upcoming youth competitions and long term player development programmes.
According to reports, the federation had approached Ranjit Bajaj with an offer to serve as the manager of the India Under 15 squad. However, Bajaj has decided not to accept the position. While the specific reasons behind his decision have not been officially detailed, the move has prompted the federation to consider alternative leadership arrangements.
Following Bajaj's decision, Bibiano Fernandes has emerged as the leading candidate to assume a larger role with the youth national team. Reports indicate that the AIFF is prepared to entrust him with both the head coach and team manager responsibilities, provided he agrees to the proposal.
Bibiano Fernandes is widely recognised as one of India's most experienced youth football coaches. Over the years, he has played an important role in nurturing young football talent through various AIFF development programmes and national youth teams. His work has earned appreciation for focusing on technical development, tactical awareness and long term player growth.
Indian football has increasingly prioritised youth development as part of its long term strategy to improve performances at the international level. The Under 15 national team serves as an important foundation for identifying promising players who may later progress to the Under 17, Under 20 and senior national teams.
The role of team manager extends beyond administrative responsibilities. Managers work closely with coaching staff, players and federation officials to ensure smooth coordination during training camps, domestic preparations and international tournaments. Effective management contributes significantly to maintaining discipline, organisation and player welfare.
If Bibiano Fernandes accepts the expanded role, it could provide greater continuity between coaching and team administration. Having one individual oversee both football development and team operations may help improve communication and decision making within the squad.
The AIFF has invested considerable effort in strengthening grassroots football and youth development pathways in recent years. National youth teams regularly participate in international tournaments and development camps designed to expose young players to higher levels of competition and accelerate their progress.
Football experts believe that experienced youth coaches are essential for building the next generation of Indian footballers. Technical guidance during the early stages of a player's career often plays a decisive role in long term success at both domestic and international levels.
The federation is expected to finalise its appointments after completing internal discussions and receiving confirmation from the individuals involved. An official announcement regarding the coaching and managerial structure is anticipated once the selection process has been completed.
As preparations continue for future youth competitions, the AIFF remains focused on ensuring stability and continuity within the India Under 15 programme. The decisions made regarding leadership will play an important role in shaping the development of emerging football talent and supporting the federation's long term vision for Indian football.
With Ranjit Bajaj declining the managerial position and Bibiano Fernandes emerging as the preferred choice, attention now turns to the federation's final decision and the next phase of preparation for India's promising young footballers.