The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is reportedly in advanced discussions with a highly-rated former World Cup coach to mentor the Indian women's national team. While the official announcement is awaited, sources suggest that the coach, known for his successful stints with various national teams, could bring a wealth of experience and tactical expertise to the Blue Tigresses.

The potential appointment comes at a crucial juncture for Indian women's football. While the team has shown promise in recent years, there is a growing recognition of the need for strategic guidance to elevate the team's performance on the international stage. The team secured a berth at the AFC Women's Asian Cup in July 2025 for the first time via qualification, defeating Thailand 2-1.

The AIFF is aiming to create a robust support system for the team, and the appointment of a mentor with international experience would be a significant step in that direction. The new mentor is expected to work closely with the current coaching staff, providing guidance on training methodologies, tactical strategies, and player development.

It's worth noting that Santosh Kashyap was appointed as the head coach of the Indian senior women's team on September 16, 2024. Kashyap, a former India international with almost a decade of coaching experience, took charge of the Blue Tigresses with the SAFF Women's Championship 2024 in mind. Priya P.V. serves as his assistant coach, and Raghuvir Pravin Khanolkar is the goalkeeping coach.

Thomas Dennerby was appointed as the head coach of the Indian women's national team in 2021 and also coached the under-17 squad.

The appointment of a former World Cup coach as a mentor could provide a significant boost to the team's morale and confidence. The players would benefit from the opportunity to learn from someone who has coached at the highest level of the game, gaining valuable insights into the demands of international football.

The mentor's experience could also help the AIFF identify and address key areas for improvement within the women's football program. This could include strengthening the youth development system, improving the quality of coaching at the grassroots level, and providing more opportunities for players to gain international experience.

As the team prepares for upcoming tournaments and qualifiers, the guidance of an experienced mentor could prove invaluable. The focus will likely be on fine-tuning the team's tactical approach, improving their mental resilience, and fostering a strong team spirit.

The AIFF's decision to bring in a mentor underscores its commitment to the long-term development of women's football in India. By investing in quality coaching and support staff, the federation hopes to create a sustainable pathway for talented female players to reach their full potential and represent the country with pride on the global stage.