Bibiano Fernandes Agrees India U15 Coaching Job, Ranjit Bajaj's Role Uncertain

Bibiano Fernandes has agreed to take on the role of head coach for India's under-15 football programme, marking a significant appointment within the All India Football Federation's development structure. Fernandes, who previously managed Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League, brings considerable experience from his time developing young talent across South Asian academies. The Portuguese coach's appointment comes at a critical juncture for Indian youth football, with the national under-17 side competing in regional tournaments and targeting qualification for the AFC U-16 Championship.

This move proves consequential for India's pathway development, particularly as the federation seeks to establish consistent coaching standards across its age-group programmes. Fernandes's track record includes cultivating several players who have progressed to professional contracts in the ISL and abroad, whilst his predecessor oversaw periods of inconsistent performance at junior international level. The uncertainty surrounding Ranjit Bajaj's future administrative role suggests internal restructuring within the federation's coaching hierarchy, potentially signalling a broader strategic shift towards prioritising technical education and long-term athlete development over short-term results.

The coaching appointment will be formalised following the federation's approval process, with Fernandes expected to implement a structured curriculum across training camps. His tenure will be measured against India's performances in upcoming youth tournaments, including qualification matches for continental championships. Should Fernandes succeed in developing a cohesive under-15 squad over the next eighteen months, the model could influence recruitment decisions for the under-17 and under-20 setups, potentially establishing a unified technical philosophy across India's youth system.