Former head coach Igor Stimac, in his farewell press conference, revealed that he underwent urgent heart surgery due to the immense stress of managing the Indian football team. In a shocking disclosure, Stimac levelled several allegations against the All India Football Federation (AIFF), accusing the body of failing to recognize the significance of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers over the Asian Cup.
Indian Football team stress land Igor Stimac in hospital
The Croatian coach explained that he was issued a final warning before the Asian Cup for attempting to persuade the AIFF about the crucial importance of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. This situation culminated in a health crisis, necessitating immediate heart surgery. Stimac described the intense stress and disturbance he experienced due to ongoing issues within the federation.
“After I told them that the World Cup Qualifiers were more important than the Asian Cup, I received a final warning from AIFF. When I received the final warning on December 2, no one knows this, I finished in the hospital. I was disturbed with everything going on; stressed from the obvious problems. I had immediate surgery on my heart. Wasn’t ready to speak to anyone or find excuses. I was ready to put myself on the line to prepare my team for the Asian Cup to give the best shot,” Stimac stated in the press conference on Friday, June 21.
AIFF sacks Igor Stimac
Regarding his dismissal, Stimac was candid about his departure, expressing no surprise about parting ways with the team. He mentioned that many senior players were aware of his decision to leave, even if the team had qualified for the third round. He cited a lack of proper support and pervasive dishonesty within the AIFF as critical factors influencing his decision.
“Not surprised about parting ways. Most of my senior players knew I had decided to leave even if we had qualified for the third round. It was impossible for me to go on without proper support, full of lies, and people who had only private interests,” he added.
Earlier, Stimac had promised to disclose troubling details about the state of Indian football. In a heartfelt Twitter post, he thanked Indian football fans and team management for their support during his challenging five-year tenure. Following a critical virtual meeting on June 17, AIFF officials decided to end Stimac’s association with the Indian team after a series of lacklustre performances.
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