Legendary twist: Fake Xavi throws real spotlight on AIFF’s hiring chaos

In a bizarre twist to India’s search for a new football coach, a 19-year-old impersonated Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez by sending a fake job application to the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The email, sent from a spoofed ID, initially fooled officials and sparked media speculation about Xavi’s interest in the role.

Key Highlights:

- The prank email was sent from ‘xaviofficialfcb@gmail.com’, claiming to be Xavi applying for India’s head coach position

- AIFF’s national team director Subrata Paul initially confirmed the application, which was later debunked by journalists and fan platforms

- Sports journalist Naman Suri revealed the prank, sharing a screen recording from the teenager’s Sent folder

- Spanish media and insiders close to Xavi denied any involvement, stating he never applied for the role

AIFF’s Response and Fallout:

- AIFF retracted its earlier confirmation, citing affordability concerns and lack of verification

- The incident has triggered backlash on social media, with users accusing AIFF of clout-chasing and mismanagement

- Some reports suggest AIFF may have used Xavi’s name to boost the profile of the vacancy

Coaching Search Status:

- AIFF received 170 applications, including names like Pep Guardiola and Xavi, both later confirmed as fake

- Three candidates—Stephen Constantine, Khalid Jamil, and Stefan Tarkovic—have been shortlisted for interim roles

- Final appointment expected by August 1

Sources: MSN India, Hindustan Times, Sportstar, Mathrubhumi, Free Press Journal, The Daily Jagran, Onmanorama