Minerva Academy owner Ranjit Bajaj has changed his mind about joining the India Under-15 team as manager. He now says he is willing to take the role if head coach Bibiano Fernandes is not part of the team.
Bajaj had earlier refused the position because he disagreed with Fernandes’ footballing approach. He expressed his disappointment after being appointed without prior discussion with AIFF (All India Football Federation).
Earlier this week, AIFF named Bibiano Fernandes as head coach and Ranjit Bajaj as manager for the U-15 team. The World Cup & Festival is just over two months away.
In a recent Instagram video, Bajaj claimed he would reject the job due to differences in vision. He explained that coaches with conflicting philosophies cannot work together effectively.
However, Bajaj later said he might reconsider if Fernandes leaves the project. He emphasized his long-term goal of helping India reach future tournaments like the 2034 World Cup and 2036 Olympics.
Bajaj’s latest comments have left the situation unclear. AIFF must now decide on the team structure and roles as the tournament approaches.