Indian football is currently facing a period of significant turmoil, marked by a confluence of on-field struggles, administrative challenges, and financial uncertainties. Recent developments paint a worrying picture for the sport in a nation once considered the "sleeping giant of Asia".

On-Field Performance and Rankings

The most visible indicator of this decline is the performance of the national team. The Indian men's team has slumped to 133rd in the latest FIFA rankings, its worst position in nine years. This drop follows a string of poor results, including losses to Thailand and Hong Kong in June 2025. These results have jeopardized India's chances of qualifying for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. The team has only managed one win in its last eight matches under coach Marquez, a victory against the Maldives in March 2025. Even the return of veteran striker Sunil Chhetri has not been enough to turn things around. This decline is a significant setback for a nation that was once called the "Brazil of Asia" for its achievements and fluid style of play.

Administrative and Financial Turmoil

Adding to the on-field woes, Indian football is facing significant administrative and financial challenges. Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the organization that runs the Indian Super League (ISL), has put the league on hold due to a lack of clarity over the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) with the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The current agreement, which guarantees the AIFF an annual payment of Rs 50 crore in exchange for marketing rights, is set to expire in December 2025, and discussions for renewal have been inconclusive. The AIFF has confirmed that the 2025-26 ISL season is on hold, pending a Supreme Court ruling. This uncertainty has left clubs in a difficult position, with some delaying pre-season training and holding off on signing foreign players.

The I-League, once the top tier of Indian football, has also suffered a decline since being relegated to the second division in 2019. The league has faced dwindling funds, poor scheduling, a lack of marketing, and inadequate broadcasting, leading to the closure of several clubs. The AIFF's budget allocation for the I-League 2, the third tier, has also fallen significantly.

Systemic Issues and the Path Forward

Beyond the immediate challenges, Indian football faces deeper systemic issues that need to be addressed for long-term growth. These include:

• Weak Grassroots Infrastructure: A lack of scouting, limited access to quality academies, and inadequate coaching for young players hinder talent development.
• Subpar Coaching: Indian coaches often lack modern tactics and adaptability, despite improvements through foreign staff and AIFF licensing programs.
• Minimal International Exposure: The national team needs more high-level friendlies, top-tier tournaments, and overseas training camps to improve its pace, technique, and adaptability.
• Mismanagement and Governance Failures: The AIFF has been plagued by mismanagement, mistrust, and missed opportunities, hindering the sport's growth.
• Lack of a Coherent Pipeline: The Indian football system lacks a clear pathway for players and coaches, with inadequate facilities, disjointed leagues, and underfunded training.

To address these challenges, a concerted effort is needed from all stakeholders, including the AIFF, clubs, government, and fans. Key steps include improving grassroots programs, enhancing coaching tactics, strengthening domestic competitions, providing mental training, and increasing international exposure. The AIFF has launched programs to identify and nurture young talent, including regional academies, football festivals, and talent scouting programs. While these initiatives show promise, they need to be expanded and made more accessible.

The current crisis presents an opportunity for Indian football to rebuild from the ground up. By addressing the systemic issues and focusing on long-term development, India can realize its potential and once again become a force to be reckoned with in Asian football.