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Bhaichung Bhutia demands fresh start for Indian football, criticizes AIFF

Xtra Time Web Desk: Former India football captain Bhaichung Bhutia has expressed concerns over the state of Indian football, calling for a complete overhaul of the All India Football Federation (AIFF). Bhutia’s remarks follow India’s disappointing performance in the Intercontinental Cup, where they managed only a draw against Mauritius and suffered a 3-0 loss to Syria. As a result, India's FIFA ranking has dropped to 124, a significant fall from their previous position in the top 100.

Speaking to PTI, Bhutia stressed that the recent results are a clear indicator that Indian football is on the decline. He believes the country needs a fresh start, beginning with a reformed AIFF. According to the former football legend, a serious discussion is needed on how to advance the sport in India, and reforming the federation's constitution is essential.

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"I think it's not a great sign, we have been on decline for quite some time now. From being ranked in top 100 to going down at 125. I think football needs a new governing body, new election and get its fresh start. Otherwise I think it’s only going down," Bhutia said. He further added, "There has to be a really serious discussion, thorough debate that has to be done taking the game forward. The Constitution has to reform, the case is still in the Supreme Court. I hope the Supreme Court gives a verdict as soon as possible."

Bhutia also emphasized that AIFF must prioritize the growth of football, criticizing their approach of focusing only on paperwork, like Vision 2046, without concrete action. "You cannot just have vision 2046 on paper and not implement things. It is important now that the federation rather than doing NGO kind of work," he noted.