Igor Stimac, the coach of the Indian football team, resorted to social media to respond to allegations levelled against him. Stimac got himself in hot water ahead of Asian Games after it was revealed that he chose the national team on the recommendation of an astrologer. The occurrences, however, extend back to a vital Asian Cup encounter against Afghanistan in June 2022.
“Target or honest fighter for the betterment of Indian football? The time is coming to put all cards on the table . See how much and who really cares about football in this country. Give it a thought before making up your judgment. Thanks once again for your support,” Stimac posted on his social media handles.
“My dream of making India a football nation is still alive,” he added.
Indian football bodies have been at odds with head coach Igor Stimac since his comments that ‘he is not here to lick a*e‘. The scathing comments came after ISL clubs refused to release players for the Asian Games in 2023. Following the interview, AIFF issued him a show-cause notice. In a sudden change of events, a peculiar report was released, putting Stimac in jeopardy.
Stimac is said to have sought astrologer guidance on team selection ahead of four important matches, including Asian Cup qualifiers. Stimac was recommended to the astrologer, according to the Indian Express account. He agreed to consult an astrologer after being convinced by colleagues to investigate the potential impact on sports.
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Kushal Das, the secretary-general of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) at the time, confessed that he brought Stimac to the astrologer Bhupesh Sharma. Das emphasised the significance of India’s Asian Cup qualification amid a difficult time. According to sources, the AIFF paid astrologer Sharma between Rs 12 and 15 lakh for his services during a two-month period. The sum was justified, according to Das, by India’s successful qualification for the Asian Cup.
The significant controversy comes at a time when the Indian football team is surging into the top 100 teams in the world. Stimac is still at loggerheads with the Indian Football authorities. The coach, on the other hand, is yet to refute the allegation brought against him.
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