Former Bengaluru FC coach Simon Grayson is reportedly now a leading contender to become the new head coach of the Indian football team. Former head coach Igor Stimac was shown the door by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Monday, after a series of disappointing performances in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
Simon Grayson – new Indian Football team coach?
According to a report in Football Insider, Grayson, who has been out of management since parting ways with Bengaluru FC last December, is currently in talks for the role. The 54-year-old brings a wealth of experience, having managed several clubs in the English Football League (EFL), including Leeds United and Preston North End.
His tenure at Leeds United was particularly notable, highlighted by a stunning FA Cup third-round victory over Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United with a 1-0 win at Old Trafford in 2010.
Simon Grayson with significant experience in India
Grayson’s most recent managerial role was with Bengaluru FC, where he served from June 2022 to December 2023. During his time there, he led the team in 48 matches, achieving 22 wins, 12 draws, and 14 losses. Under his guidance, Bengaluru FC finished as the runner-up in both the Indian Super League and the Indian Super Cup in the 2022/23 season.
As Grayson explores the possibility of returning to management, his track record of success with various clubs and his recent experience in Indian football make him a strong candidate to take on the challenge of leading the Indian national team
Editors pick
