Mehrajuddin Wadoo Takes Charge as Head Coach of India U17 Football Team

The All India Football Federation has appointed Mehrajuddin Wadoo as the head coach of the India U17 men's national football team. With a rich history as both a player and coach, Wadoo aims to foster player development as the team prepares for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Uzbekistan 2027 Qualifiers. The Blue Colts are set to compete in Kuala Lumpur against teams like Malaysia and Palestine. Wadoo emphasizes the importance of this age group and is committed to creating a supportive environment for the players. Read on to learn more about his vision and plans for the team.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 3, 2026, 00:16 IST

New Leadership for India's U17 Football Team

New Delhi, September 2: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has officially named Mehrajuddin Wadoo, a former international player, as the head coach for the India U17 men's national football team.

As reported on the AIFF's official website, the 42-year-old Wadoo has commenced his role as the Blue Colts initiated their training camp in Margao, Goa, starting Wednesday. This camp serves as a preliminary phase in preparation for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Uzbekistan 2027 Qualifiers.

India has been placed in Group E for the upcoming qualifiers, which are scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from November 11 to 20. The Blue Colts will compete against the host nation Malaysia, along with Palestine, Singapore, and Guam.

Wadoo, who holds an AFC Pro Licence, brings a wealth of experience from his playing and coaching career. His most recent position was as head coach of Mohammedan Sporting Club, and he has also led Real Kashmir FC and Sudeva Delhi FC in the past.

During his playing career, Wadoo was part of the Indian national team that clinched the AFC Challenge Cup in 2008 and represented India at the AFC Asian Cup in 2011. He has also won the SAFF Championship in 2005, the Nehru Cup in 2007 and 2009, and was a member of the Chennaiyin FC team that secured the ISL title in 2015.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Wadoo stated that he feels privileged to lead the India U17 team. He emphasized the significance of this age group and the necessity of fostering an environment conducive to player development. He mentioned that the team has already begun trials and is committed to thorough preparation for the upcoming qualifiers.

“It is a great honour to take charge of the India U17 men’s national team. This is an important age group, and our immediate focus is to create an environment where they can develop and compete at the highest level. We have started the camp with trials and will prepare for qualifiers in the best possible manner. I am looking forward to working with the players and having a fruitful camp,” he remarked.