Bhaichung Bhutia Calls for AIFF President's Resignation After India's AFC Asian Cup Setback
Bhaichung Bhutia's Strong Critique of AIFF
New Delhi: Following India's narrow 0-1 defeat to Hong Kong in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, former captain Bhaichung Bhutia has voiced strong criticism against the All India Football Federation (AIFF). He expressed his discontent over the federation's reported offer of a USD 50,000 bonus to players contingent on a victory in the match.
After a goalless draw with Bangladesh in their first game, India was in dire need of a win to keep their hopes alive. Unfortunately, a penalty awarded in stoppage time dashed those hopes, resulting in yet another disappointing outcome.
In an exclusive conversation with a news outlet, Bhutia urged AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey to resign to 'save Indian football' and questioned the rationale behind such sporadic financial incentives.
He stated, “Reports indicate that players have not even received their daily allowance of RS 2,500. Unlike cricketers, Indian footballers lack central contracts and do not earn in large sums. Their income primarily comes from daily allowances.”
Bhutia further questioned the sudden announcement of a USD 50,000 prize, asking, “Where did this come from? If they had won, would the same bonus apply for the next four matches? There’s evidently no system or strategy in place, just arbitrary decisions lacking clarity.”
In July 2023, India was ranked 99th in FIFA rankings and had a successful year, clinching the Intercontinental Cup, Tri-Nation Tournament, and SAFF Championship. However, Bhutia lamented that it has been 'one disaster after another' since then.
Following the tumultuous departure of former coach Igor Stimac and India's exit from the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the team has struggled, remaining winless throughout 2024. Their only recent victory came when veteran striker Sunil Chhetri returned from retirement, leading the team to a 3-0 win over the Maldives—India's first win in 489 days.
As countries like Uzbekistan celebrate their first World Cup qualification, India now faces the daunting possibility of missing out on the 2027 Asian Cup, a tournament they have consistently qualified for in the past.
Reflecting on the overall situation, Bhutia did not hold back, stating, “It’s been a dreadful two and a half to three years under Kalyan Chaubey’s leadership. On-field performances have been lackluster, and off-field management has been chaotic and fraught with controversies. It’s time for him to step down—for the future of Indian football.”