# AIFF’s Bajaj-Fernandes rift risks India U-15 World Cup preparation 2026-08-08T11:04:34+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet India have secured a spot at the first FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan, but confusion over who will lead the team threatens to derail preparations. Ranjit Bajaj, initially opposed to the manager's role, now says he will take charge provided Bibiano Fernandes is not part of the setup. Fernandes, in turn, has expressed discomfort with the proposed coaching structure and support staff appointments. The All India Football Federation has stayed silent despite both coaches airing their concerns publicly. With a novel eight-a-side format and limited time, India need clarity to identify players and build a playing identity. The tournament, featuring all 211 FIFA member associations, requires quick decisions from the AIFF. ## Coverage - indiatoday.in Tags: AIFF, Bibiano Fernandes, FIFA U-15 World Cup, Indian football, Ranjit Bajaj, youth football Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/aiffs-bajaj-fernandes-rift-risks-india-u-15-world-cup-preparation/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/aiffs-bajaj-fernandes-rift-risks-india-u-15-world-cup-preparation/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.