Antonio Lopez Habas applies for India head coach role after Manolo Marquez exit

The last date of applying for the role of Indian football team head coach is July 13.

As the All India Football Federation (AIFF) begin their search for the new Indian Football team head coach after mutually parting ways with Manolo Marquez, one familiar name has emerged, Antonio Lopez Habas.

“Antonio Lopez Habas, who has spent over a decade in Indian football, believes there’s one final chapter left for him with the Indian national team and is keen to lead them to the Asian Cup 2027,” a source close to the development revealed to Khel Now.

The source added that Habas had applied for the role during the last hiring cycle as well, but no formal talks took place.

Also Read: Not the place for me: Manolo Marquez breaks silence after India exit; hints at deeper issues

Antonio Lopez Habas brings in a plethora of experience

Antonio Lopez Habas, 68, has a proven record in India. He won the Indian Super League (ISL) twice—first with ATK in 2014 and again with ATK Mohun Bagan in 2019–20. He later claimed the ISL Shield in 2023–24 with Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Internationally, Habas managed Bolivia to a runners‑up finish in the Copa America in 1997.

His disciplined approach helps teams perform under pressure. Indeed, Inter Kashi, his current I‑League side, are among the title contenders. He also brings European experience managing clubs like Valencia and Celta Vigo.

A crucial time ahead for the next Indian Football Team coach

The departure of Manolo Marquez comes at a tough time for the Indian football team, who now find themselves in a crisis of both form and direction.

A new head coach will be stepping in with little margin for error, as India’s qualification hopes for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 hang in the balance.

A disappointing goalless draw against Bangladesh and a narrow 1-0 loss to Hong Kong have left the Blue Tigers fourth in Group C, with just one point from two matches.

AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualification at stake

India now face a must-win situation in their remaining four fixtures—two against Singapore and the return legs versus Bangladesh and Hong Kong. Winning at least three of these is likely the minimum requirement to stay alive in the qualification race for the AFC Asian Cup 2027.

With home advantage in some of these games, India has a chance to bounce back. However, the new coach must quickly instil belief, improve execution in the final third, and bring tactical clarity to a squad in desperate need of direction.

Who is the new head coach of the Indian Football Team? The new coach of the Indian Football Team has not been decided. AIFF has opened applications for the post. What is the deadline for the application for the Indian Football Team head coach role? The last date of applying for the role of Indian football team head coach is July 13. What qualification is needed to apply for the Indian Football Team head coach role? Applicants must hold a valid AFC/UEFA Pro License (or equivalent) and have 10–15 years of coaching experience at the senior or elite youth level. Has Antonio Lopez Habas coached the Indian national team before? No, Antonio Lopez Habas has never coached the Indian national team but has shown interest in the role previously as well. Which teams has Antonio López Habas coached? Antonio Lopez Habas has coached Bolivia’s national team, Atletico Madrid (as assistant), Las Palmas, Valencia, Celta Vigo, as well as ATK, ATK Mohun Bagan, and Inter Kashi in India. Did Antonio López Habas coach any national team? Yes, Antonio Lopez Habas coached the Bolivia national football team from 1996-1997, leading them to the 1997 Copa América final.

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