"Journey Won't Be Easy, But...." - Former India Coach Igor Stimac Warns His Replacement Manolo Marquez

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Former Indian football team head coach Igor Stimac warned new man in the role Manolo Marquez on the tough journey ahead, but believes the Spaniard is "best suited to take Blue Tigers to the next level".

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) officially announced Marquez on Saturday (July 20) as the head coach of the Indian senior men's national team, replacing Stimac, who parted ways with team last month.

Marquez took over on a three-year contract following the departure of Stimac, whose tenure ended following India's poor performance in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 and an early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.

Stimac, who served as the Indian team's manager from 2019 to 2024, extended his wishes to Marquez on social media, saying his experience with Indian players will be an advantage.

"Dear Manolo, Congratulations on being named the new India head coach. The journey won't be easy, but your experience with Indian players speaks for itself, and you are best suited to take the Blue Tigers to the next level! Good luck, my friend," Stimac posted on X.

Stimac, who took over the head coach role following the end of Stephen Constantine's tenure in 2019, oversaw the Indian team achieve 19 wins, 14 draws, and 20 losses. His dismissal was anticipated due to the team's unsatisfactory performances in recent competitions.

Stimac had criticized Kalyan Chaubey, the President of AIFF, just after his sacking. "The sooner Chaubey leaves, the better it is for Indian football," he had said at a press conference.

Marquez, who is the new man at the helm, will be aware of the challenge ahead, but has a proven track record in Indian football, having successfully coached Hyderabad FC in the Indian Super League and helped young players.

Marquez's appointment is seen as a new beginning for Indian football, with supporters hopeful for a more prosperous era under his direction. The Spaniard is expected to serve dual roles as he continues to be in charge of FC Goa in the ISL.