Carlo Ancelotti Says India Needs Stronger Football Culture
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti says India needs stronger grassroots development and a sustainable football culture to produce the next generation of players.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has said India needs to develop a stronger football culture and grassroots system to produce the next generation of players. Speaking ahead of Brazil’s upcoming friendly against India in Kolkata, Ancelotti said the country has limited experience against top international opponents but expressed interest in seeing how the Indian team plays.
Ancelotti said football development in India requires greater focus on building a pipeline of young talent. He noted that India has strong sporting traditions in other disciplines but needs sustained grassroots work to create more footballers.
India’s recent international record reflects the challenges. The team missed out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification third round after losing 2-1 to Qatar in June 2024. India also failed to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup after finishing third in Group C with five points from six matches.
India’s FIFA ranking has also declined, with the country placed 138th in the ranking cited in the report, compared with its highest-ever position of 94th.
The domestic football structure has faced uncertainty as well, including issues surrounding the Indian Super League’s commercial arrangements, scheduling and broadcasting. Concerns have also been raised about limited youth competitions and coaching infrastructure in several states.
India are scheduled to face Brazil in Kolkata on October 3 as part of a series of international friendlies. Ancelotti said he is looking forward to visiting the city and experiencing Indian football firsthand.
