Ranjit Bajaj says he will accept the India Under‑15 men’s national team manager job if given full control, after previously rejecting a joint role with head coach Bibiano Fernandes. His statement reignites the AIFF’s search for a sole manager ahead of the inaugural FIFA U‑15 World Cup.

Key Takeaways

  • Bajaj wants sole authority over the U‑15 team
  • Head coach Bibiano Fernandes also declined the role
  • AIFF must decide quickly before the tournament

Ranjit Bajaj, founder‑director of Minerva Academy, announced that he is prepared to assume the manager position of India’s Under‑15 men’s national football team, provided he is given unrestricted control. This comment follows his earlier refusal to serve alongside head coach Bibiano Fernandes for the inaugural FIFA U‑15 World Cup in Azerbaijan.

According to Bajaj, his coaching philosophy diverges sharply from Fernandes’s, making a joint leadership untenable. "Two different visions cannot co‑exist without harming the team," he said in an Instagram video posted on Saturday morning.

In the video, Bajaj revealed that a trusted source and a newspaper article confirmed Fernandes had also turned down the role for the same reasons. He urged the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to approach him directly and grant him the job, stressing his ambition to build a football powerhouse.

Historical Background

FIFA will host its first U‑15 World Cup in Azerbaijan in October 2026, featuring all 211 member associations. The tournament will be played in an 8‑a‑side format with two 20‑minute halves, and each nation can register 14 players, including up to two goalkeepers. India’s participation hinges on finalizing a coherent coaching structure.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that a unified coaching philosophy is crucial for nurturing young talent, especially when the nation aims for a strong presence at the 2034 World Cup and 2036 Olympics. Bajaj’s potential appointment could be a pivotal turn for Indian football’s long‑term strategy.

"A single‑vision coaching staff is essential for unlocking the full potential of youth players," said a football development expert.
Did You Know?: India previously competed in the 2002 U‑17 World Cup, but has yet to make a notable impact at the U‑15 level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is Ranjit Bajaj currently in talks with the AIFF?

A: Yes, he has publicly invited the federation to approach him with his terms.

Q2: Who will form the coaching staff if Bajaj takes charge?

A: Bajaj insists on the freedom to appoint his own assistants, ensuring the team operates under his singular vision.