Football

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has shortlisted 20 "competent" candidates for the position of Indian men's team head coach, following the sacking of Igor Stimac last month. The AIFF's acting secretary general, M Satyanarayan, revealed that the federation has contacted some of the shortlisted coaches to confirm their availability.The shortlisted candidates include both club and national team coaches, with the AIFF considering their experience and suitability for the role. Satyanarayan emphasized that the decision will be based on the coaches' qualifications and their plans for the team.The AIFF is aiming to finalize the shortlist and present it to the executive committee within the next two days. The technical community will also be involved in the decision-making process.Satyanarayan expressed confidence in the team's potential, despite their recent setbacks in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. He highlighted the need to finalize friendly matches for the September window to continue the team's development.The retirement of Sunil Chhetri has left a significant void in the team, but Satyanarayan believes that there are potential replacements who can step up. He mentioned that the upcoming Durand Cup could provide an opportunity to identify promising players.The AIFF is keen to appoint a head coach who can guide the team to success in future international competitions. The federation is confident that the shortlisted candidates possess the necessary skills and experience to lead the Indian men's team to greater heights.

Chelsea have appointed Enzo Maresca as their new head coach, according to British media reports. The Italian joins the Blues on a five-year contract, with an option for a further year. This move is designed to provide stability after two years of upheaval under the new regime led by US investors Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly.Maresca, 44, was Pep Guardiola's assistant at Manchester City before taking over as Leicester's manager last year. He guided the Foxes to an immediate return to the Premier League after their relegation 12 months ago. His style of football, which emphasizes possession and attacking play, is said to have impressed Chelsea chiefs.Chelsea were in search of a new manager after parting ways with Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine spent just one season at Stamford Bridge, with Brentford's Thomas Frank and Kieran McKenna also linked with the vacancy.Pochettino's departure came after Chelsea finished sixth in the Premier League, qualifying for the Europa Conference League but missing out on Champions League qualification and a trophy. They lost the League Cup final to Liverpool and the FA Cup semi-final to Manchester City.However, there were signs of progress under Pochettino, particularly during a run of five consecutive wins to end the campaign. This ensured Chelsea's participation in European competition next season.Maresca's appointment is seen as a long-term investment by Chelsea. The club hopes that he can build on the foundations laid by Pochettino and establish a consistent winning culture at Stamford Bridge.

Bayern Munich's arduous search for a new head coach has culminated in a surprising appointment: Vincent Kompany. The 38-year-old Belgian, who recently oversaw Burnley's relegation from the Premier League, has signed a three-year deal with the German giants.Bayern's pursuit of a new manager has been a protracted one, with several high-profile candidates rejecting their advances. After failing to secure Xabi Alonso, Julian Nagelsmann, and Ralf Rangnick, the club attempted to retain Thomas Tuchel, who had initially agreed to leave in the summer. However, Tuchel ultimately decided against staying, leaving Bayern with a void to fill.Kompany's appointment is a bold move by Bayern, considering his limited managerial experience. However, the Belgian has impressed with his leadership qualities and commitment to attacking football. He has also received strong endorsements from his former coach, Pep Guardiola, who believes Kompany has the potential to succeed at the highest level.Kompany's task at Bayern will be a challenging one. The club has endured a trophyless season for the first time in 12 years, and there is pressure to restore their dominance both domestically and in Europe. Additionally, Kompany will need to navigate the club's complex backroom politics, which have been a factor in the departure of previous coaches.Despite the challenges, Kompany is confident in his ability to succeed at Bayern. He believes that his attacking philosophy and determination to build a strong team will ultimately lead to success. "I'm looking forward to the challenge of FC Bayern," Kompany said. "It's a great honor to be able to work for this club - FC Bayern is an institution in international football."